The biggest of misfortunes that FC Barcelona have had to deal with this season are the injuries to their players. Already a less-than-ideally balanced squad, the consistent injuries proved to become an additional headache. However, certain casualties have definitely hurt Barcelona more than others.
One of those casualties was none other than Barcelona Golden Boy Pedri. Due to a muscular injury coming up again while Barça took on Athletic Club at the San Mames, the Spaniard had to be taken off in that La Liga outing and has since been recovering from his ailment.
However, even without Pedri, Barcelona did manage to overcome the recent threat of Napoli. The Champions League tie against the Italian side was one of great importance to Barça, so winning it without one of their key players comes as a major confidence booster. Yet, most within the club would argue that the sooner Pedri returns, the better for the team.
Moreover, it is not just Barcelona who think like this. Even Luis De la Fuente, coach of the Spanish National team, has even acknowledged that Pedri continues to be in touch with him, as per Mundo Deportivo:
“I have spoken with Pedri. I speak with almost all the players who go through injuries and difficult times. We always have to wait for Pedri, because he is a great footballer, who wants to play with us and is involved.”
This mention of waiting for Pedri clearly signifies just how integral the Barcelona star is both to his club and country. The Spanish coach put even more emphasis on his future with the National team and highlighted how he must be supported through this difficult time:
“Now he has to live through that unpleasant part, but we have to support him. He is going to bring a lot of joy to Spanish football.”
Furthermore, he did not forget to mention that he goes far back with the Barcelona gem. Highlighting how he was the one to put his faith in Pedri even within the Under-21s, he ended on a note stating that he would love to reunite with him once again in the senior team:
“I was the one who gave him his debut in the U-21. I would like to meet again in the absolute with him.”
While Pedri continues his recovery, Spain collects itself for its upcoming friendlies. The first is against Colombia in England, and the next will be against Brazil at the Santiago Bernabeu. Pau Cubarsi, one of the great revelations for Barcelona this season, has already been included to take part in those two contests.
