Barcelona's squad were given a day off by Hansi Flick before Sunday's Clásico against Real Madrid. GOAL, citing Catalan newspaper Sport, reported that players still turned up at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper of their own accord.
Players at the training ground
Those present included Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Fermín López, Gerard Martín, Xavi Espart and Szczęsny.
Injured players also present
The injured players Bardghji, Christensen, Koundé, Eric García and Dani Olmo were also at the site. Several players are currently working through injury recovery programmes.
Why Flick gave the squad time off
Barcelona returned from Paris at around 3:30 in the morning after their Champions League tie against Paris Saint-Germain. The team held a recovery session on Wednesday, and with the meeting with Real Madrid looming on Sunday, Flick decided a day off would help the players recharge.
Plans before Sunday
Jules Koundé is pushing hard to be ready for the Clásico, though his place in the squad is not yet guaranteed. Barcelona will hold two collective sessions on Friday and Saturday before the clash with Real Madrid.