Valencia face two training absences before Barcelona visit | OneFootball

Valencia’s build-up to FC Barcelona’s visit featured two absences in Thursday’s session at Paterna, according to Superdeporte.

Luis Rioja skipped group work for a second straight day and is a doubt for the game, while goalkeeper Kayne Van Oevelen also did not train.

With only two sessions remaining before facing the azulgrana, Rioja’s status is significant. He started the last match at right wing-back, so his potential absence would be a setback for the coaching staff.

Foulquier is progressing through the final phase of his recovery. He is working to be available as soon as possible, though he remains outside the team’s competitive rhythm.

The positive note was Pablo Maffeo, who trained normally and continues to build fitness for the Barcelona fixture.

Valencia will monitor Rioja’s evolution and decide whether he can make it in time for one of the season’s most demanding games.

Source: Superdeporte

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”