Ronald Koeman allowed Lionel Messi, Frenkie de Jong and Miralem Pjanic to miss Thursday’s training session ahead of Saturday’s clash with Atletico Madrid.
The Dutch coach had his full squad available again after international commitments but opted to allow the three players some extra rest.
Messi was given time off after a long flight back from Argentina on Wednesday, while De Jong and Pjanic were also excused after playing for their national teams on Wednesday.
The trio are expected to return for Friday’s final session before the game at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, although it gives Koeman little time to prepare his team.