After having waved the 2022-23 season goodbye in a triumphant fashion, FC Barcelona are back in action with a number of friendly matches scheduled in the USA. While the team has played two matches now, the squad would still be looking to maximize their fitness levels before going into the next season.
These below-optimal fitness levels were on display in the last match against Real Madrid, as two of Barcelona’s integral players, Ilkay Gundogan and Andreas Christensen suffered from discomfort in the first half.
Luckily enough, the team did not miss them too much in this match, but their presence in the camp is important as this will help them prepare for the grueling season coming up.
The good news for FC Barcelona fans, as Javi Miguel claimed while exclusively talking to Barca Times, is that neither of the two players has suffered a serious injury. Both Gundogan and Christensen only had discomforts, which may not keep them away from action for too long.
In fact, the journalist reports that the players can be available to Xavi for the upcoming match against AC Milan. However, the coaches do not want to take any risks with these important players, and they will feature only in the match against Tottenham on the 8th of August in the Joan Gamper Cup.
Andreas Christensen was one of the main pillars of FC Barcelona’s defense that played a key part in helping the club win the La Liga title. His partnership with Araujo brings top-notch defensive stability to the team, and Xavi will be looking to get the Dane recovered as soon as possible.
Ilkay Gundogan has only recently arrived at FC Barcelona, and this was only his first match in the blue and garnet kit, after he made his debut against Arsenal in the second white kit. His talents and skills need no introduction, and he is expected to be a key player in Xavi’s midfield scheme next season.
