Barcelona defender not in training today due to fever – report | OneFootball

With a number of Barcelona players finishing up their international commitments, they have rejoined the rest of the team in training today as they ramp up preparations to face Rayo Vallecano.

Indeed, as per an update from Gerard Romero, a number of returnees like Inigo Martinez, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Joao Felix have joined the available players, and a few youth prospects in training today.

Joao Cancelo down with favour

However, star defender Joao Cancelo is not in training today, reports Romero, with the Portuguese international currently said to be down with a fever.

With the game against Rayo Vallecano still a few days away, it is unlikely that this will have an impact on the 29-year-old’s availability for the encounter on Saturday.

Cancelo has been a permanent fixture in the lineup for both Barcelona and Portugal this summer and has accumulated a lot of minutes without much of a rest.

The right-back has featured in all 14 games that Barcelona have played since his arrival on the transfer deadline day, contributing with two goals and an assist.

The 29-year-old has also played in each of Portugal’s six games since September this year, starting both of their two matches against Liechtenstein and Iceland last week.

A couple of days worth rest could serve Cancelo well before Barcelona get set to take on Rayo Vallecano.

No De Jong in training

On Monday, Barcelona were handed a big boost as Frenkie de Jong returned to team training after his lengthy injury layoff.

However, the Dutchman was not in training today as he has been given a leave, with he and his partner soon set to welcome a new baby.

Meanwhile, youngsters like Angel Alarcon, Nil Caldero, Brian Farinas, and Alberto Navarro have been called up to train with the first team today.