Alejandro Balde safe for Clasico clash with Real Madridd

The image of Alejando Balde touching his calf eleven minutes before the end of the game against Athletic was a cause for concern. So much so that Xavi Hernández did not hesitate for a moment to replace him. On the horizon is the third matchday of the Champions League group stage against Shakhtar Donestk and, in particular, the first clásico of the season against Real Madrid.

The game against Real Madrid next Saturday at Montjuïc is marked in red in the Blaugrana calendar. And the absence of Balde would be a serious blow, especially considering the number of players in the treatment room. Xavi will not be able to count on Jules Koundé and Sergi Roberto against Real Madrid. He will just about recover Pedri, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and is awaiting the evolution of De Jong. None of them will be at their best, so losing the undisputed starter at left-back, a player who provides a lot of depth and allows the 3-4-3 that the coach has installed, would be a major handicap.

The first test after arriving in the dressing room, however, brought some good news. Balde has not suffered any major injuries. Just a few ramps as a result of the accumulation of efforts and the discomfort in the abductor that he had been carrying until just 48 hours before Athletic's visit to Montjuïc.

Balde will be rested on Wednesday against Shakhtar Donestk as a precaution. But it was a foregone conclusion. Of these three consecutive home games, the visit of the Ukrainian side was the least decisive, bearing in mind that Barça have won their first two games in Europe's top competition and lead their group with authority.

He will probably not be the only player rested against Shakhtar. Ilkay Gündogan could also get the rest that other players' injuries have prevented him from getting so far.