Physical training is key for any footballer, and the demands at Barcelona are no different for them. By keeping in shape and being in their best possible position from a physical health perspective, players are more likely to perform at a higher level.
Moreover, it helps players remain consistent while also avoiding unwanted injuries that can become a major stain on their respective careers. Several Barcelona players have thus aspired to be better athletes holistically beyond just the abilities they possess with their feet.
Just as Pedri did before him, 19-year-old Barcelona fullback Alejandro Balde has also worked towards a physical development to improve his physique. According to Spanish journalist Juan Jimenez of Diario AS, the Barcelona academy product has already gained 10 kilos of muscle mass.
When the player’s personal trainer, Jonathan Mengeli, spoke with Men’s Health in November of last year, he spoke in detail about Balde’s development and the kinds of exercises that the Barcelona star was focusing on to improve his physical fitness.
“He easily jumps between 1.20 and 1.50 meters on one leg. Plyometrics on one leg greatly helps a footballer’s speed. It helps them think and react quickly.”
As Juan Jimenez acknowledges, Balde already possesses a very gifted physique and genetically strong traits for an athlete, but the youngster works on them as well.
By putting in proper effort and even maintaining a solid dietary plan, the youngster is able to retain his best physical levels and has significantly improved them as well.
However, given the recommendations the physical trainer Mengeli spoke about during the interview clearly showcased the entire thought process and work that goes behind Balde’s fitness training and how calculated it is.
From what can be seen, it is truly a promising detail to come to light in terms of a fullback that Barcelona expects to be among the world’s finest at his current progression.
