Overloaded and Overworked: The medical woes of Barcelona’s pre-season

As the new season approaches, Barcelona’s medical staff is facing an unprecedented workload due to a surge in player injuries. 

The team’s pre-season preparations have been severely impacted, with several key players sidelined due to various ailments.

To begin with, Ronald Araujo, the Uruguayan defender, is one of the latest additions to the injury list. After undergoing surgery in Finland, he has started his rehabilitation journey at the Ciutat Esportiva. 

However, his road to recovery is expected to be long, with a projected return date of four months away.

The problem is much bigger

Araujo joins a growing list of injured players at the club, making this pre-season one of the most challenging for the medical team. 

Interestingly, the focus of Barcelona fans is now split between the team’s upcoming tour of the United States and the progress of players recovering from their issues.

Meanwhile, Pedri, who returned from the Euros with an injury, will remain in Barcelona to undergo treatment in the hopes of being fit for the start of La Liga. 

Ansu Fati will not play the pre-season matches for Barcelona. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Ansu Fati, who suffered an injury to the sole of his right foot during training, will also stay behind and be monitored closely.

Furthermore, Frenkie de Jong is another player who will not travel to the United States due to ongoing issues with his right ankle. The midfielder missed the European Championship due to this injury, and his status remains uncertain.

On the other hand, the situation surrounding Gavi is also unclear. Although he has started training with the ball, his return to the team is not expected until November, following a severe knee injury. 

It is yet to be decided whether he will continue his rehabilitation with the team in the United States.

Lastly, in a surprising turn of events, Pablo Torre will join the team on their US tour despite undergoing surgery for a fractured finger. The medical team will closely monitor his progress, and his participation will be assessed accordingly.

As the new season approaches, Barcelona’s medical staff faces a daunting task in getting their players fit and ready for competition. 

The road ahead will be challenging, but with careful management and rehabilitation, the team hopes to have their key players back on the pitch soon.