Barcelona have finally entered the long-awaited week in which El Clasico arrives. The Catalan giants are adamant about beating eternal rivals Real Madrid in their quest for domestic glory. However, their biggest challenge in the match is perhaps not even Real Madrid themselves.
Given their current injury list, La Blaugrana are in a bit of a mess. At this moment in time, Pedri, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Frenkie De Jong, Jules Kounde, and Sergi Roberto are all injured. Even worse, there are serious doubts about their respective returns in time for the big Spanish encounter.
Uncertainty grows
Heading into the match against Los Blancos, Barcelona are still unsure about the players that will be available. According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, there is still no clarity within the Barcelona camp about which players may end up making the squad list to finally face off against Real Madrid by the 28th of October.
Previously, it was expected that out of the injury list, Pedri would be the first to come back in. As MD analyzes it, there was even an expectation that the 20-year-old midfielder could play minutes against Bilbao and Shakhtar Donetsk.
Pedri’s delayed return
Thus far, the player has not participated in the recent training session. Hence, many reports suggest that his participation in the Shakhtar clash is all but ruled out. Moreover, these reports are also claiming that he may end up not making it in time for El Clasico either.
In another case, Robert Lewandowski continues to heal well. His progress is reportedly going smoothly but there is no guarantee for now. His appearance in the final squad list for El Clasico will depend on his physical fitness and how he feels, just as it applies to everyone in contention to make it for the grand clash.
Raphinha was another player expected to return sooner rather than later alongside Pedri. He is yet to join group training as well and it seems that the recovery is taking longer than expected. Frenkie De Jong, similarly, also seems doubtful for the match but everything will be judged upon his own feelings and what the medical team at Barcelona recommends.
No room for risks
Xavi’s stance remains clear, he is not going to risk his players for one game. With the whole season up ahead, the only way he is going to give them a chance against Madrid is if they are 100% ready to compete.
Apart from Jules Kounde and Sergi Roberto, both of whom are completely ruled out, everyone else will continue their recovery and by the time the Clasico comes around, their feelings will be assessed.
