FC Barcelona are currently facing a major injury crisis within the club. Having lost seven key stars to injuries already, Barcelona consider themselves quite stretched in terms of their depth. However, even their impressive depth seems to be giving in.
Jules Kounde, Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Frenkie De Jong, and Alejandro Balde are all currently injured. Their respective recoveries are going to conclude at different times, and as it stands, the El Clasico is the actual fixture that Barcelona hopes to recover their stars for.
Pedri’s return
One star who is expected to return the earliest is 20-year-old Barcelona gem Pedri. Former Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy winner, Pedri’s influence within Xavi’s Barça is unparalleled. His reintroduction back into the team following his recovery was originally set to bring a lot of quality back into the squad.
Change of Plans
However, according to the latest update provided by Esports RAC1, fans of Barcelona may have to wait a bit longer than previously expected.
Originally reported to return after the international break and receive minutes against Athletic Bilbao, it is now being said that Pedri may altogether miss the clash against Bilbao and then be given minutes against Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League.
Target: El Clasico
Following that game, El Clasico arrives. The clash against Los Blancos is truly what the wait is for. Pedri’s return to fitness by then is what actually matters. Having been out since August, Barcelona continue to be cautious with their star athlete. Relapses in the past have caused further pain, something the Catalans wish to avoid this time around.
Currently valued at €100 million by Transfermarkt, Pedri remains Barça’s most valuable star. His return will undoubtedly bring with it a world-class talent to the field that has shown itself to be greatly influential to Barça even in the past. Xavi will just be hoping he can have Pedri at his disposal as soon as possible.
