FC Barcelona are set to face Napoli in a key encounter this Wednesday, and the results of this match can have significant implications for Xavi Hernandez’s continuation on the Barcelona bench till the end of the season.
The Catalans were able to get back to winning ways as they beat Celta Vigo 1-2 in their last La Liga match, and are also fortunate in the aspect that Napoli are not going through a commendable patch of form right now.
Furthermore, as SPORT has noted, the Portuguese forward Joao Felix has felt a significant improvement in the ankle on which he is suffering from an injury, and can even recover in time for the upcoming Napoli game.
The 24-year-old forward will assess his condition throughout today, and depending on how he feels, he may still be included in the squad for this match. Felix has been sidelined for the last three weeks due to a sprained ankle, and unless there is a setback in his recovery process, he could return for the match against Napoli.
However, there is no chance for him to start this game, even though Xavi has other notable forwards unavailable due to injuries, including Ferran Torres. Still, Felix can be a highly useful weapon for Xavi if his team is in need of an increased attacking threat.
As things stand, Pedri is expected to start as a false winger against Napoli, with Christensen, Gundogan, and Frenkie making up the midfield. However, Vitor Roque’s presence on the wing can also not be entirely ruled out.
One of the players who is certain to miss this match is the Spaniard Ferran Torres, who is not expected to get the medical green light in time. The former Manchester City winger is trying to return to action as soon as possible, but the Napoli match is scheduled just a bit too soon for him.