Barcelona summer signing trains away from group as he continues with specific plan
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FC Barcelona began preparations on Saturday for Monday’s La Liga clash with Rayo Vallecano at the Spotify Camp Nou.
After Friday’s recovery session following the victory over Athletic Club, Hansi Flick’s squad returned to work with the aim of maintaining their strong start to the defence of the league title.
Rodri not in group training
And, according to SPORT, Barcelona’s marquee summer signing Rodri was not a part of today’s group training session.
Indeed, the 30-year-old Spain captain once again trained separately from the rest of the squad and completed gym work as part of the individual programme he has followed since joining Barcelona.
The midfielder, who made his debut against Athletic Club on Thursday and left a positive impression, has only completed a handful of training sessions with the team.
Not training with the group. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The club’s medical and fitness staff are gradually increasing his workload so that he can build up his match fitness without taking unnecessary risks.
No concern over Rodri’s fitness
Barcelona are communicating complete calm regarding Rodri’s physical condition.
The midfielder is fit to play and is expected to become an important part of Flick’s project, but the club do not want to rush his integration.
Rodri only returned from his holiday a few days ago after playing a leading role for Spain at the World Cup, so his workload is being managed carefully.
He should be available for Monday’s match against Rayo Vallecano, although it would be surprising if he started. The plan is to increase his involvement gradually.
Rodri made his debut vs Athletic Club. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Livakovic completes his second session, no Gavi
Meanwhile, as already reported, fan-favourite midfielder Gavi was also not part of the group training today as he continues to recover from a bruised knee he suffered in the opening game against Elche.
Long-term absentees Frenkie de Jong and Roony Bardghji were also not part of the session.
Elsewhere, Dominik Livakovic, Barcelona’s latest signing, completed his second training session with the squad.
The Croatian goalkeeper is competing for the backup role behind Joan Garcia, although his registration situation remains relevant to the squad selection.
The session was also completed by youngsters Eder Aller, Hamza Abdelkarim, Brian Farinas and Jesse Bisiwu, who trained with the first team.