According to reports from Catalunya Radio (h/t SPORT), FC Barcelona has officially appointed Lucas Gomez as the new medical doctor for their first team. This change comes in light of the vacancy created by the recent and tragic passing of Carles Minarro, who had been an integral part of the medical staff until his death.
The football community was shaken when Minarro died unexpectedly on 8 March while traveling with the team for an important match against Osasuna. His contribution to the club was immense, not just due to his medical expertise but also because of the strong rapport he had built with players and staff alike. The sudden loss was felt deeply throughout the club, highlighting the critical role that medical professionals play in athlete care and team dynamics.
In the weeks since Minarro’s passing, the La Liga leaders faced the challenge of finding a suitable replacement. After careful consideration, they decided to promote from within, ensuring continuity in the medical staff. Lucas Gomez, aged 34, has been with Barcelona for a considerable time, serving as a doctor for the club’s futsal team for the past three seasons. His previous experience involves close collaboration with Minarro in the futsal department before Minarro transitioned to the senior team last summer. This prior relationship not only gives Gomez a solid understanding of the team’s specific healthcare needs but also enables him to carry on Minarro’s legacy in a meaningful way.
In his new position, Gomez will closely collaborate with Dr. Ricard Pruna, another esteemed medical professional, as part of the club’s senior football medical team. This partnership is expected to foster an environment focused on the health and well-being of the first team, ensuring players receive the best possible care both on and off the pitch.
Initially, Barcelona considered the possibility of hiring a new doctor from outside the organization. However, they ultimately opted for an internal promotion, demonstrating their trust in existing personnel and their familiarity with the club’s culture, values, and operational practices. This choice signifies a strategic move toward maintaining the club’s internal cohesion while also honoring the contributions of those who have previously held these important roles.
Gomez has already integrated into the coaching staff led by Hansi Flick and is set to continue in this role beyond the current season. This long-term commitment allows him the opportunity to cultivate robust relationships with players and to develop tailored medical strategies that align with the team’s needs throughout the rest of the season and into the future.
With a specialization in sports medicine and a wealth of experience across various athletic disciplines, Gomez is well-equipped to tackle the complexities of sports-related injuries and recovery protocols. Prior to his tenure with the futsal team, he contributed to the health management of athletes in Barcelona’s hockey section, at the High-Performance Centre (CAR) in Sant Cugat, at Club Natacio Sabadell, and with the Catalan Swimming Federation. These diverse experiences have not only enhanced his medical expertise but also his adaptability to different sports and athlete profiles.
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