Barcelona receive much-needed good news ahead of US tour as defender “100% fit” after six months out | OneFootball

In the last few weeks, Barcelona have had rotten luck on the injury front. Pedri injured his knee while playing for Spain at Euro 2024, and less than 48 hours later, Ronald Araujo suffered a serious hamstring problem during his excursions for Uruguay at the Copa America. The curse continued earlier this week when Ansu Fati injured his foot, making his a doubt for the start of the new season.

Because of these issues, Barcelona desperately needed some good news – and it has come. They’ve announced that Alejandro Balde had finally returned to full fitness, having suffered a serious hamstring injury of his own back in January. He’s been cleared to go on the upcoming pre-season tour of the United States.

Julian Araujo is also back from his own injury, as he aims to establish himself in Hansi Flick’s squad for the 2024-25 campaign. He’ll be competing with Jules Kounde and Hector Fort for minutes at right-back.

Balde’s return is excellent news for Flick, who is counting on the youngster to be his starting left-back. Barcelona will certainly be a stronger team defensively with him in the line-up.