Barcelona mainstay not training with group as club unwilling to take any risks | Barca Universal

"Barcelona returned to work this week after several days of rest for the players who were not involved with their national teams, but the big focus at the Ciutat Esportiva was Pedri. According to a report from Carlos Monfort in SPORT, the midfielder has still not resumed full training with the rest of the group. Furthermore, although the general feeling around his recovery remains positive, the technical staff is determined not to rush anything, especially given how delicate his recent injuries have been."

"The mood inside the club is calm, but also extremely careful. As such, the training took place with a very small group due to the large number of players currently away on international duty. Even with the reduced numbers, Pedri was one of the absentees when the squad assembled on the pitch. The midfield maestro did not work with the rest of the group, and the club intends to handle his return."

"It had already been understood that the midfielder was unlikely to feature against Athletic Club, and despite encouraging signs, Barcelona are unwilling to take the slightest risk. As such, the plan is to have him ready for the Champions League clash against Chelsea, albeit from the bench and not as a starter. The coaching staff has adopted a step-by-step plan. Every phase of his recovery is being monitored closely, with the priority being long-term fitness rather than short-term availability."

Barcelona returned to training after several days of rest, with the main focus on Pedri, who has not yet resumed full training with the group. The technical staff remains positive about his recovery but are determined to avoid rushing him because of the delicacy of his recent injuries. Training occurred with a reduced group as many players are on international duty, and Pedri was absent. The club expects him to miss the Athletic Club match and plans to have him available from the bench for the Champions League clash with Chelsea. Recovery is being managed step-by-step prioritizing long-term fitness.

Read at Barca Universal