Barcelona has been hit with a significant setback in their midfield department as both Frenkie de Jong and Pedri are set to miss important upcoming matches due to injuries. De Jong is expected to be sidelined for approximately a month after spraining his ankle ligament during a recent LaLiga game against Athletic Club. Meanwhile, tests have revealed that Pedri is struggling with a thigh issue, adding to Barcelona’s injury concerns in midfield. This news comes at a critical juncture of the season, with crucial fixtures on the horizon.
The absence of De Jong and Pedri comes at a crucial time for Barcelona, with the Champions League second leg against Napoli looming large. The uncertainty surrounding Pedri’s return date due to his previous injury history adds to the challenge for the Catalan club. It is clear that Barcelona will have to cope without two key midfielders as they look to navigate through a crucial phase of the campaign.
With Gavi also on the sidelines due to injury, Barcelona’s midfield depth is being tested severely. The absence of key players like De Jong, Pedri, and Gavi leaves Xavi Hernández’s side short of options in midfield at a critical point in the season. The upcoming matches against Napoli and Atlético Madrid will require Barcelona to find alternative solutions in the middle of the park.
This is not the first time that De Jong and Pedri have faced injury setbacks this season. De Jong had previously sprained his ankle earlier in the campaign, resulting in a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Pedri, on the other hand, has been plagued by various injuries since his breakout season with Barcelona in 2020-21. The duo’s injury struggles highlight the physical demands of top-level football and the challenges of maintaining fitness over a grueling season.
In response to the midfield injury crisis, Xavi has called up young talents Marc Casadó and Pau Prim to train with the first team. The absence of experienced midfielders like De Jong and Pedri has forced Barcelona to explore alternative options within the squad. Additionally, the deployment of center-back Andreas Christensen in a more advanced role showcases the team’s versatility in dealing with personnel shortages.
As Barcelona brace themselves for the upcoming challenges without De Jong and Pedri, the resilience of the squad will be put to the test. The crucial matches against Napoli and Atlético Madrid will serve as a litmus test for Xavi’s side as they aim to secure their place in the Champions League and maintain their pursuit of a LaLiga title. The injuries to key midfielders have presented a significant obstacle for Barcelona, but the team will be looking to overcome adversity and continue their quest for success on multiple fronts.
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