"With Raphinha and Joan Garcia back in the dynamics for the team's game against Athletic Club, Hansi Flick moved one step closer to having a fully-fit squad at his disposal. Barring Gavi and Marc-Andre Ter Stegen who are yet to return, Pedri is the only significant first-team player currently ruled out of action and the Canary Islander was expected to make it back in time to face Chelsea tomorrow night."
"As relayed by SER (h/t FCB World) in a recent report, the club physiotherapists see Pedri to be ready for the game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge tomorrow night. Club doctors, however, did not agree on his progress and felt that his recovery would be better delayed until later in the week. After all, the player is too valuable in the scheme of things to be risked."
"Pedri will still travel with the team to London to support the team on the night, but his return to the field is expected only to be at the weekend when Barcelona play host to Alaves in La Liga. What this means for the game against Enzo Maresca's side, thus, is that Hansi Flick will only have Frenkie de Jong to rely on as a defensive midfielder on the night and must identify a complementary profile to join him in the department."
Raphinha and Joan Garcia returned to the squad for the Athletic Club game, leaving Pedri as the only major first-team absentee besides Gavi and Marc-Andre Ter Stegen. Pedri was expected to be available for the Champions League trip to Chelsea but remains ruled out because his recovery has not progressed as hoped. Club physiotherapists considered him fit for Stamford Bridge, but club doctors recommended delaying his comeback to avoid risking the player. Pedri will travel to London to support the team and is now expected to return against Alaves. Hansi Flick will rely on Frenkie de Jong as the sole defensive midfielder and must choose a complementary partner, with Dani Olmo or Eric Garcia potential options.
Read at Barca Universal
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