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Barcelona have arrived in the United States for the pre-season preparations. They have already started their first training session on US soil, reports Anais Marti Herrero.
The Spanish journalist further claims that there are a couple of Barcelona players who are working outside the group. The two players in question are Inigo Martinez and Alejandro Balde.
Balde, as has been covered earlier, is still recovering from his ankle injury. Although he is in the last stage of his recovery, he is not fit enough to be a part of the main group, which in turn, could enable Xavi Hernandez to try his luck with another youngster in Alex Valle.
Balde is likely to play a crucial role for Barcelona next season, especially following the departure of Jordi Alba. So it will be imperative that the Spaniard returns to action as soon as possible. Until then, Valle may receive a few opportunities in the upcoming friendlies.
Inigo Martinez, meanwhile, was unveiled as a Barça player last week, as he joined the club on a free transfer. However, the defender is still not fit to return to action as he is recovering from an injury he picked up last season.
Although Martinez has travelled with the team to the US, the veteran centre-back is unlikely to play much, as Barça focus on his gradual recovery rather than a rushed and risky start to his career at the club.
Barcelona will hope the potential absence of Balde and Inigo during the US tour friendlies could pave the way for some of the youth team players such as Valle to make an impression this summer.
At the same time, it will hand the two ample time to focus on their recovery and return to action by the time the new season kicks in.
Jules Kounde was also not part of the training session as he missed out due to a stomach issue.
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