I think his last youtube video clears some things. I think he will come back at his best. At least, at his best at his age, maybe no so strong as with 30 years old., but similar. That would be impossible in most of riders. But I am sure his determinatition and sacrify would let him reach that `point. Not easy, and not soon.
Anyway he is now focusing on losing weight, So we will see a better level for sure in Dauphiné.
He needed to focus past winter in some exercises that make him worse this begining of the year than last year, but it was necessary for the future. I am sure he will be back, but anyway just try it everything for it it one of the most interesting things in cycling this year.