Injuries have plagued Barcelona to an extreme extent this season already. Not even at the halfway point yet, the 2023/24 campaign has been a nightmare for Barcelona from the perspective of unavailable players. It is only due to the well-constructed depth of FC Barcelona that the Spanish club has managed to persist.
However, with El Clasico fast approaching, Barcelona may be in for some good news. Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Frenkie De Jong could all possibly make the Clasico squad list if their upcoming training session goes as planned. Yet, there remains one key piece missing for Xavi Hernandez, and that is none other than Pedri.
El Clasico woes
The talented young midfielder is the crown jewel of FC Barcelona. He is their highest-valued player and arguably one of the most important pieces of the Barça midfield. However, he is reportedly fully ruled out for El Clasico alongside Jules Kounde and Sergi Roberto.
As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, missing this El Clasico would now mean that Pedri has missed four official clashes against Real Madrid consecutively. A worrying thought in its own right, it would make it four missed appearances across two separate competitions.
Fourth missed Clasico in a row
Last season, Pedri first missed the second clash between the two sides in the league. Ultimately, Barcelona would end up doing well on their own and winning 2-1 thanks to a last-minute Franck Kessie goal.
He then went on to miss both legs of the Copa Del Ray semi-finals, one where Barcelona would end up losing to their eternal rivals in the second leg.
This season, missing the upcoming clash would be Pedri’s first missed Clasico of the season. Hoping to ensure that no unwanted relapses occur, Barcelona are extremely cautious in the case of Pedri.
The youngster currently healing and recovering from an injury to his right thigh’s rectus femoris. Suffered in August, the player is still not at full fitness to compete again for Barcelona.
Proceeding with caution
Having previously suffered major setbacks due to relapses, Barcelona hopes to avoid that this time around. Given that this El Clasico would not jeopardize the entire season, Xavi would much rather have Pedri available for the remainder of the campaign than risk him just for one game.
It will now be seen whether the player returns against Real Sociedad or against Shakhtar Donetsk on the 7th of November.