Barcelona manager Hansi Flick explained why Alejandro Balde was only on the bench for Saturday’s La Liga clash with Celta Vigo.
The German has gone with Gerard Martin at left-back, and told the media ahead of kick-off that Balde has been struggling physically.
”Balde came back with problems from the break. Yesterday was the first time he trained with the team and that’s why I’ve opted for Gerard,” he said.
It’s been reported that Balde has a hamstring niggle, although he is on the bench for the match.
Elsewhere, Flick has handed Gavi his first start since he returned from injury and says it is just reward for his midfielder.
He said. ”Gavi has trained well in recent weeks. He deserved it. He can give us control on the ball.”
Barcelona take on Celta and will aim to get back to winning ways after losing 1-0 to Real Sociedad last time out.