Alejandro Balde has set himself a personal goal: return in time for Barcelona’s crucial Champions League semi-final first leg against Inter Milan on April 30.
The 21-year-old left-back picked up a thigh injury in the 1-0 win over Leganes and has been ruled out of the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid on April 26. Early scans suggest a minimum recovery period of three weeks, but Balde is pushing to speed things up.
Despite the tight timeline, Barcelona has not given up hope. Balde is working hard behind the scenes, aware of how important the clash with Inter is for both the club and his own season. However, team doctors remain cautious. His high-intensity style leaves little room for error, and there are fears of a setback if he returns too soon.
Balde’s past injury issues add to the concern, after missing months last season due to a torn tendon. While Gerard Martin has filled in well at left-back, all eyes remain on Balde’s progress ahead of the Champions League showdown.
