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Balde absent from Barcelona training as club manages player workload

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 11:50 AM

Last updated Jul 21, 2026

Balde absent from Barcelona training as club manages player workload

Summary

Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde missed group training on July 21, as he followed an individual fitness program aimed at managing his workload. The club's new fitness coach, Benjamin Kugel, has introduced personalized training to enhance player performance while reducing injury risks. Following Balde's absence, 17-year-old Jordi Pesquer was called up to train with the senior squad. Barcelona is expected to hold double training sessions on July 22, which will determine whether Balde rejoins the full team.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Balde follows an individual training program to manage fatigue.
•Kugel is implementing tailored fitness strategies at Barcelona.
•Jordi Pesquer trained with senior squad due to Balde's absence.
•Barcelona plans double training sessions on July 22.
•Balde committed to staying at the club despite competition.

Latest Updates

11:50 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona full-back absent from group training to manage workload

What they're saying

"
Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde was absent from group training on Tuesday morning after following an individual fitness programme as part of the club’s new pre-season workload management strategy...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Barcelona LaLiga Soccer