CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Why is Pedri not playing for Barcelona against Napoli in the Champions League?
The midfielder was not included in Xavi’s squad for the huge tie in the continental competition.
Barcelona midfielder Pedri was not included in the side’s squad for the Champions League Round of 16 second leg game against Napoli (KO 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT.).
The 21-year-old suffered another injury to a long list of physical issues that have peppered his short career. The latest injury came in the 0-0 draw against Athletic and the ex-Las Palmas player was forced off in the first half. He was replaced by Lamine Yamal.
The player left the field unaided but was in floods of tears as it appeared that he had suffered the same thigh injury that has already kept him out of 15 games so far this season.
Barcelona - Napoli: Follow the live action here!
When will Pedri return to action?
A statement from the club, after tests had been conducted, soon confirmed that the player had sustained “an injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh”.
Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernández confirmed the injury “didn’t look good” and that he imagined Pedri would be absent “for several matches”.
Barcelona injury update
Pedri was not the only player to suffer an injury in the game, with Frenkie de Jong also suffering an injury, this time to his ankle. He joins Pedri on the sidelines along with Ferran, Balde, Gavi and Marcos Alonso.
Barcelona take on Napoli in the Champions League tonight. You can follow the game live on AS USA as it happens.