FCBARCELONA.CAT

23.02.2007 13:59

Intense training session

FC Barcelona’s first team squad trained this morning at La Masia training pitch, with their focus on the upcoming league game against Athletic Bilbao. The preparatory session was noted for the intensity of its physical exercises.

Frank Rijkaard had all the players in his squad available, except for Belleti (who is still injured), and Ronaldinho, who stayed in the gymnasium for recuperation. Elsewhere, Samuel Eto’o continues progressing day by day, and his return to the team seems imminent.

Circuits
Out on the pitch, the physical trainers were heavily involved as the first part of training was dedicated to physical conditioning. The players underwent circuits that combined jumps, sprints and changes of rhythm with short passes, ball control and shots at goal.

Ten against ten match
For the final part of training the technical staff divided the squad into two teams
Of nine outfield players and a goalkeeper. This game lasted 30 minutes and was very even all through with the team in blue emerging victorious 4-2. The blue team enjoyed most of the possession, thanks to Xavi and Deco, the latter also scored two excellent goals. Towards the end, the team in yellow responded with their only goals of the game through Messi and Motta.