Lewandowski and Balde, in doubt for the starting eleven: Flick bets on prudence after their injuries

FC Barcelona faces the final stretch of the season with its sights set on the recovery of two of its key players: Robert Lewandowski and Alejandro Balde. Both players, recently reincorporated into training after overcoming their respective muscle injuries, will not start in the Clásico against Real Madrid, as confirmed by German coach Hansi Flick in the press conference prior to the Clásico. The coach is betting on caution and values the management of minutes to ensure the full recovery of both players, who are fundamental for the club's objectives in the remaining matches.

Lewandowski, ready but no rush to return to the starting lineup

Robert Lewandowski suffered an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left thigh during the match against Celta on April 19, which sidelined him from competition at key moments of the season. After being medically cleared and completing several training sessions with the group, the Polish striker is available for Flick, although the coach has made it clear that he will not force his return to the starting lineup.

In the words of Hansi Flick:

"I don't think I'll count on them from the start. I think Gerard and the rest of the players are doing very well and after the injury it's slightly different. After this match we have three more left. Maybe he'll have minutes for the second half."

This statement underlines the confidence in the performance of Ferran Torres and Gerard Martín, who have been able to adequately replace the absence of the goalscorer. Flick prefers to reserve Lewandowski for the second half of the match, avoiding unnecessary risks and ensuring his availability for the decisive commitments that remain.

Alejandro Balde, reincorporated with caution after his muscle injury

Alejandro Balde has also completed part of his recovery process after the distal injury to his left hamstring suffered against Leganés on April 12. Although the left-back is already training with the group, the coaching staff is cautious about the possibility of a relapse, especially considering the intensity of the upcoming matches, including the expected Clásico against Real Madrid.

Balde could have minutes in the second half, depending on the evolution of the match and his physical sensations. The management of his return responds to a prevention strategy and the confidence in the good moment of Gerard Martín, who has shown solidity in defense during the absence of the young youth squad player.

Flick prioritizes the health and stability of the team

The decision not to count on Lewandowski and Balde from the start responds to a policy of injury management that prioritizes the health of the players and the stability of the team. Flick has highlighted the performance of the substitute players and their ability to maintain the competitive level of the team in moments of adversity.

The German coach thus faces the final stretch of the season with a balanced squad, where rotation and prudence will be key to achieving the set objectives. With three matches to play after the next match, the dosage of efforts and the progressive return of the injured players are presented as determining factors in the fight for the titles.

Conclusion

The return of Lewandowski and Balde is excellent news for FC Barcelona, but Flick does not want to rush. The management of minutes and the confidence in the players who have stepped forward during the absences reinforce the idea of a solid team prepared to face the final challenges of the season. The Barça fans hope to see their stars in the starting eleven soon, but understand that the priority is to ensure their full recovery so that they can perform at their best when they are most needed.