Alejandro Baldé has made a timely return to training for FC Barcelona, offering manager Hansi Flick a significant boost ahead of Sunday’s decisive Clásico against Real Madrid at Montjuïc.
The 20-year-old left-back has resumed full training after recovering from a left biceps femoris injury sustained in the league encounter against Leganés. According to Mundo Deportivo, Baldé was spotted training with the rest of the squad on Thursday, raising hopes of his availability for one of the season’s most pivotal fixtures.
Barcelona, currently engaged in a tight race for the La Liga title, have had to navigate a difficult stretch without the explosive full-back.
Baldé’s absence spanned several critical matches, including the Champions League quarter-final against Borussia Dortmund, the semi-final clash with Inter Milan, numerous domestic league encounters, and the Copa del Rey final.
His recovery now provides Barcelona with a much-needed lift as they aim to close the season on a high despite their exit from European competition.
In his absence, Gerard Martín has deputised competently, offering defensive assurance on the left flank. However, Baldé’s pace and attacking instincts are expected to play a key role against Real Madrid, particularly in neutralising the threat of Vinícius Júnior, whose quick bursts on the wing have proved troublesome for many opponents this season.
Hansi Flick, recently appointed to lead the Catalan giants, faces a tactical decision on whether to reintroduce Baldé directly into the starting line-up or ease him back into action.
With so much at stake in the Clásico, the coach may be tempted to deploy his first-choice left-back from the outset, depending on his fitness levels following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Elsewhere in the squad, Barcelona remain without midfielders Marc Casadó and Pablo Torre, both of whom continue to recover from their respective injuries.
While their availability for Sunday’s match is considered doubtful, Mundo Deportivo reports that Casadó might return in time for next week’s Catalan derby against Espanyol.
As Barcelona prepare for the clash with their arch-rivals, the stakes could not be higher. A win against Real Madrid would not only tilt the title race in their favour but also restore momentum following their European setback.
The presence of Baldé, whose dynamism and technical ability have been instrumental throughout the campaign, could prove decisive in shaping the outcome.
With Flick looking to stamp his authority early in his tenure and Real Madrid pushing to assert dominance, the return of key players such as Baldé may well make the difference.
Sunday’s showdown promises to be a fierce battle, and for Barcelona, having one of their brightest young talents back at the right moment might be exactly what they need.
