Barcelona are still recovering from their dramatic two-legged clash against Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League.
While the 3-1 loss in Germany earlier this week ended their unbeaten run in 2025, a 4-0 masterclass in the first leg was enough to send the Blaugrana through to the semi-finals on aggregate.
Following their return to Catalonia, the players were handed a well-earned rest on Thursday after a light recovery session on Wednesday.
But just days away from a key La Liga showdown with Celta Vigo, the commitment from some senior players couldn’t be clearer.
Real Madrid’s shock Champions League exit to Arsenal has also shifted the momentum back in Barcelona’s favour, with the domestic title race heating up as the season enters its final stretch.
Despite Hansi Flick granting his squad the day off, three key Barcelona stars – Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and Wojciech Szczesny – voluntarily reported to the Ciutat Esportiva for individual training.
According to journalist Carlos Monfort, the trio turned up on their own accord to work on their fitness, underscoring the determination within the squad ahead of a crucial few weeks.
All three players are expected to play a vital role in the business end of the season, with Hansi Flick counting on their leadership and sharpness as fixtures pile up.
Pedri, who was on the bench against Dortmund, is in line to return to the starting XI against Celta Vigo, as Barcelona aim to close the gap in La Liga and keep the pressure on Los Blancos.
Szczesny, meanwhile, continues to deputise between the sticks until Marc-Andre ter Stegen receives medical clearance to return.
As for Lewandowski, who started both legs of the Dortmund tie, Hansi Flick may consider giving him a breather this weekend in order to keep him fresh for the Champions League semi-final.
But if this week’s self-imposed training session is anything to go by, the veteran striker is unlikely to slow down anytime soon.
📁 Aunque tenían día libre, Lewandowski, Szczęsny y Pedri han ido hoy a la Ciutat Esportiva
Vía @monfortcarlos
— Carpetas Blaugranas (CB) (@carpetasFCB) April 17, 2025
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