According to reports, Balde, who was sidelined for about three weeks due to a left thigh muscle injury, showed significant improvement and was one of the happiest players during the Copa del Rey celebration against Real Madrid. Balde, along with his close friend Lamine Yamal, organized a lively reggaeton party in the La Cartuja locker room, which Dani Olmo likened to a schoolyard.

Reports indicate that a meeting will be held with Balde on Monday to decide his return to group training, considering the crucial Champions League match against Inter (Wednesday night). Balde is eager to play and is doing everything he can, but the club is proceeding cautiously, as hamstring muscles are prone to re-injury. Coach Hansi Flick needs Balde on the left flank but doesn’t want to risk a recurrence that could sideline him for the rest of the season.

The final decision will be made in agreement with the player, technical staff, fitness coaches, and medical team. Balde may undergo tests until Wednesday to assess his condition. If his return is delayed, he will likely play against Valladolid on Saturday to be fully ready for the return leg against Inter in Milan. Meanwhile, Polish striker Robert Lewandowski is unlikely to be fully fit until the return Clásico (Sunday two weeks later).