Injuries have been a bane for FC Barcelona this season with several key players spending significant time out on the sidelines.
Gavi has been the biggest miss, having been sidelined since November due to an ACL injury. And the Catalans also lost another La Masia prodigy in Alejandro Balde in January.
The 20-year-old left-back had to undergo surgery after suffering an injury to the hamstring tendon of his right thigh and was ruled out for the rest of the season.
Balde making good progress
Now, Balde will not play for Barcelona this season, but the young defender is making good progress in his recovery.
In fact, Mundo Deportivo reports that the left-back will be at full strength by the time the pre-season rolls around in the summer.
If he continues at this pace, the youngster could even be ready in time for the UEFA Euro 2024 or the Olympic Games, although that scenario would be concerning for Barcelona as they would want to avoid risks with his recovery.
Uncertain future
Balde signed a new contract with Barcelona last year and was even handed the No. 3 shirt by the club. However, his future at the Catalan outfit is not entirely certain.
Indeed, reports suggest that the Blaugrana would be open to offers for the 20-year-old defender in the summer owing to their financial situation.
For now, though, the youngster is making good progress on his road to recovery from injury.
