Barcelona consider €1 billion midfield duo absolutely untouchable despite injury setbacks – report

Barcelona midfielder Pedri was supposed to be a major doubt for his side’s Spanish Super Cup semi-final clash against Osasuna. Not only did the Spaniard return, he made such an impact that Barcelona won 2-0.

“When he comes out, everything becomes clear,” said Xavi about his youngster’s performance after the game. After struggling with injuries for most part of the season, Pedri eventually returned to action during the Super Cup tie and many believed that it was a good sign.

Injuries have indeed hampered his progress this season but Juan Jimenez has mentioned via AS that the 21-year-old, alongside Gavi, is considered as the base of this Barcelona team and the duo is absolutely untouchable. 

Pedri is putting extra shifts

It is to be noted that Pedri is working extremely hard to get back to full fitness. He changed what he eats, and the famous statement about not being able to eat his mother’s croquettes during the last pre-season in Los Angeles is true because he takes good care of his diet now.

He does specific exercises to prevent injuries and has even started doing pilates on the advice of Carles Puyol, as he shared in a recent interview with YouTuber Ibai Llanos. All of this is to become the consistent and durable player he was before, capable of playing more than 70 games in a season.

Pedri’s presence alongside Gavi is important for Barcelona

Now, to say that Pedri is an important player for Barcelona would be an understatement. Despite his recent injury setbacks, his comeback was considered extremely important for the team.

As such, Xavi and the sports director, Deco, see him and Gavi as the future of the team’s midfield. They see them as untouchable and everyone in the team is expecting a great performance from Pedri tomorrow in the final.

However, considering the whole season and Pedri’s previous injuries, Xavi might be cautious about using him against Real Madrid. 

He might give Pedri a short role to control the game if Barça is winning or use him to find openings in the opponent’s defence if they need a comeback. But they need to be careful because Pedri has had injuries this season. The coach doesn’t want to force him, as it has backfired before.