Barcelona locker room heavyweights no longer trust head fitness coach – report | OneFootball

Barcelona’s growing injury list has hit a critical juncture in the campaign, leaving Hansi Flick without several of his most reliable starters.

The recent casualties of Frenkie de Jong, Alejandro Balde, and Jules Kounde have left the team depleted heading into a crucial part of the season.

De Jong could be ruled out of action for five to six weeks, whereas Balde could be out for a month. No timeframe has been set on Kounde’s return yet, although Barcelona have confirmed the injury.

These injuries, most importantly, have also led to a firestorm behind the scenes at Ciutat Esportiva, especially with the way the team is being physically trained.

The breaking point in the medical room

According to RAC1, the frustration is not limited to the coaching staff. A large majority of the first-team squad has expressed deep discomfort regarding the current physical preparation methods.

Following recent defeats at the Metropolitano and Montilivi, players reportedly held meetings with Flick to voice their distrust in the department led by Julio Tous.

De Jong is one of Barcelona’s fresh injury blows. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Just as they had done at the start of the season, they once again complained that the strength training exercises were insufficient and that this was affecting their performance on the pitch.

It became abundantly clear in those dressing-room meetings that there are heavyweights who have absolutely no confidence in the work led by Tous.

While Flick has attempted to calm the waters by suggesting decisions be deferred until the end of the season, they went a step further and suggested structural changes to the department.

Despite the internal outcry, the club’s sports area currently denies a systemic problem, maintaining that no changes are planned for Tous’ team.

The presence of versatile players such as Eric Garcia and January signing Joao Cancelo has helped the team.

But if the injury woes worsen for Barça, they could be in for a tough time heading into the final two months of the campaign.