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Despite enduring a relatively difficult period of late, the return of Pedri has been a bright spot for Barcelona.
The young midfielder made a substitute appearance in the narrow win over Real Sociedad, which marked his comeback after more than two months on the sidelines.
Pedri’s return has served as a massive boost for Xavi Hernandez, who has had to deal with limited options in midfield due to injuries.
Pedri unlikely to start against Shakhtar Donetsk
However, after spending more than two months on the sidelines, Pedri is not yet fully ready to start in tonight’s game against Shakhtar Donetsk.
This is according to RAC1, which suggests that the midfielder is unlikely to start in Hamburg, as Barcelona continue to remain cautious.
The Spaniard only made a substitute appearance against Real Sociedad and needs to gain some rhythm before he can start matches for Barça.
Pedri is unlikely to start tonight (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)
Start against Alaves in the offing
The report, though, adds that Pedri might be in contention to start the game against Alaves on Sunday, which will be Barça’s last game before the international break kicks in.
It is worth noting that Xavi will be without the services of Gavi on Sunday due to suspension, so the return of Pedri in the starting eleven makes even more sense.
Not to mention, the Spaniard will have gotten enough game time to get up to speed and be in a position to play the entirety of the ninety minutes this weekend.
Pedri’s creativity and his ability to circulate possession could be a major boost for Barcelona, as they look to build a winning momentum. A win against Alaves, in particular, could be an ideal way to enter the international break.
It will be interesting to see whether Pedri makes it to the Spanish national team given his current fitness.
Coach Luis de la Fuente is expected to announce the squad on November 10, with Pedri’s Barcelona teammate Fermin Lopez poised for a maiden call-up.
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-midfield-maestro-unlikely-to-start-against-shakhtar-donetsk-report/
Author : Connell Edgar-Jones
Publish date : 2023-11-07 06:57:54
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