FC Barcelona has been struck by a devastating injury blow ahead of their Champions League showdown against Chelsea.
The absence of this creative force disrupts the team’s plans and weakens their midfield stability and attacking fluidity at a pivotal moment in the campaign.
Preparations for the Stamford Bridge showdown have been overshadowed by concerns over the player’s fitness, with the club adopting a cautious approach to avoid risking further injury setbacks.
This situation forces Barcelona to adjust its strategy and rely on alternate options in midfield as it looks to secure a vital result on English soil.
The player ruled out is Pedri, the talented 22-year-old midfielder who has been sidelined with a left hamstring tear suffered during El Clásico on October 26, as reported by AS.
Initially, the prognosis suggested a six-week recovery, but Pedri impressed everyone by advancing his rehabilitation faster than expected, sparking hopes of his return for the Chelsea match.
However, recent medical assessments and a sudden setback due to gastroenteritis have led Barcelona to delay his comeback.
The club now realistically expects Pedri to return only for the fixtures against Alavés or Atlético Madrid, ruling him out of the Champions League clash.
Barcelona’s medical and coaching staff emphasize caution to protect the player’s long-term health, preferring to prioritize full recovery over a rushed return.
Pedri continues to stay active with individual physical work but has yet to rejoin the full squad training.
Having only one full session with the team before the trip to London would not be sufficient preparation, especially given the muscular nature of his injury.
The team must now look to other midfield options to fill the gap and maintain their competitive edge in this high-stakes Champions League tie.
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