Pedri’s injury after the Real Madrid match, however, was the one that affected the Blaugrana the most.
The Canary Islands international has been a regular fixture in the team since Flick’s arrival and had been at peak fitness for several years before his injury. Diagnosed with a torn hamstring after the Clasico defeat, estimates regarding his recovery time have varied. Most observers predicted an absence of four to six weeks, which would have deprived him of crucial matches against Athletic Club, Chelsea, Atlético Madrid and Betis.
Pedri on the fast track to recovery
The 22-year-old could, however, return sooner than expected. According to Marca, his recovery is going well and he could be back in time for the match against Athletic Club after the international break. Flick will have a better idea of his availability in the coming days, depending on his ability to return to group training next week. Regardless, FC Barcelona, aware of his injury history and his importance to the team, will not rush his return in any way. Even a return before December would be good news for the Blaugrana.
Pedri remains unavailable for a long time.
This information coincides with an article from MD, according to which Raphinha trained alone on the pitch for the second day in a row. However, he is in the final stages of his convalescence and should return to team training soon. FC Barcelona hopes to be able to count on Raphinha, Joan Garcia and Marc Casado for the Athletic Club reception on November 22.
The return of Casado would make it possible to do without Pedri, given the absences in midfield. With the absence of Gavi and the suspension of Frenkie de Jong, Casado, Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez are the only players fully available for Flick. Marc Bernal could also benefit from more playing time, while Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia have already helped out in midfield.
