Barcelona protect six transfer-listed players after Rony Bardghji injury

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has taken the precautionary step of separating six players from first-team training after Rony Bardghji suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury while close to leaving the club.

Barcelona confirmed on Tuesday that the Swedish winger had torn the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, with the injury coming only days before the start of the new season. Bardghji had been on the verge of departing the club, a move that could have generated a transfer fee for Barcelona.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Flick has decided not to include six players in collective sessions because they are also approaching possible moves away from the Catalan club during the final days of the transfer window.

The decision follows the concern that Bardghji’s injury could significantly disrupt Barcelona’s plans for his future. Rather than risk a similar setback involving another player who is being marketed for a transfer, Flick has chosen to train the group separately.

Marc Casado, Hector Fort, Jofre Torrents, Tommy Marques, Toni Fernandez and Guille Fernandez worked away from the main squad on Tuesday.

The move is understood to be precautionary rather than motivated primarily by footballing considerations. Barcelona are concerned that an injury to any of the six players could delay negotiations, reduce their market value or otherwise affect the club’s transfer strategy.

Casado and Torrents appear to be the two closest to leaving Barcelona.

Casado was already left out of the squad’s trip to Udine, where Barcelona took part in a friendly tournament featuring Udinese and Nottingham Forest. His future is expected to be resolved in the coming days.

Torrents, who plays at left-back, is also nearing a move to Ajax. The parties involved have reached an understanding over the next stage of the defender’s career, with the transfer now at an advanced stage.

The other four players have also attracted opportunities that would offer them more regular playing time away from Barcelona.

Hector Fort spent last season with Elche, while Tommy Marques, Guille Fernandez and Toni Fernandez have completed their time with the reserve side. All three are open to beginning new experiences outside the club as they look to continue their development and gain greater opportunities to play.

Tuesday’s training session also brought several positive developments for Flick. France defender Jules Kounde took part in his first session of pre-season, while the German coach called up several Barcelona reserve players as preparations continued for Sunday’s friendly against Swiss side Basel.

However, the main focus remained on avoiding further injuries among players whose futures are being negotiated. Bardghji’s knee problem has provided a clear warning for Barcelona, with the club now taking additional precautions to ensure that its outgoing transfer plans are not placed at further risk before the new season begins.