Leo Messi and Javier Mascherano showed up by surprise to Barça’s training complex at Sant Joan Despí this morning to undergo a medical revision and carry out their first training session of the 2015-16 pre-season campaign.
Both players were due another week’s holiday as they played in the final of the Copa America on July 4th. They were due initially to report back in training on August 5th, but given that Brazilian internationals, Neymar and Alves reported back today, both Argentinean players decided to also return to Barcelona today. Both are anxious to be in optimum shape for the Euro Super Cup against Sevilla in Tiblisi on August 11th and returning earlier will enable them to prepare sooner.
Along with Neymar and Alves, Ter Stegen also underwent a medical review this morning. The German stopper played for his national team in the recent Euro U-19 competition. The rest of the Barça squad have today off after returning from their tour of the US. Luis Enrique has called for a double training session for tomorrow.