The Canarian midfielder is one of the principal casualties Xavi’s squad will contend with at the Bernabéu as Real Madrid hosts Barcelona in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals.
Barcelona travels to Madrid without Pedri, a focal point for Xavi Hernández’s team, who will not be on the pitch for the Santiago Bernabéu showdown.
ALL ABOUT MANCHESTER UNITED VS. FC BARCELONA OF THE EUROPA LEAGUE 2022-2023
Why Pedri is sidelined for Real Madrid vs. Barcelona in the 2023 Copa del Rey semi-final
Pedri is unavailable for the semi-final first leg due to an injury, with the Barca midfielder, formerly of Las Palmas, sustaining a rectus femoris issue in the right thigh. The concern emerged after a match against Manchester United at Camp Nou during the first leg of their clash with the English club.
The absence leaves a notable void for Xavi Hernández. Data from Opta indicates that since taking charge, the coach from Terrassa has earned 90% of possible league points when Pedri features, while the tally drops to 57% without him.
In practical terms, Barcelona has accrued 84 points from 93 available in the league with Pedri on duty (27 wins, three draws, and one loss, the latter occurring at the Santiago Bernabéu). Without Pedri, the side has collected 31 points from 54, posting nine wins, four draws, and five losses.
Barca’s medical team has not provided a precise timeline for Pedri’s return, stating only that his progress will guide availability. As of February 16, an injury of this nature typically involves a layoff of three to four weeks.
Analysts emphasize that Pedri’s presence has been a catalyst for Barcelona’s attacking tempo and creative buildup, while his absence could shift the balance in a Madrid-centric matchup that often hinges on midfield control and transitional play.
Barcelona and its supporters will monitor the situation closely, hoping for a speedy recovery that could see Pedri back in action for upcoming fixtures. The battle at the Bernabéu remains a key test of Xavi’s tactical adjustments without one of the team’s most influential playmakers. (Goal)