Barcelona face a mix of relief and frustration ahead of their crucial Champions League clash with Premier League giant Chelsea.
While Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has returned to the squad, the team will once again be without key midfielder Pedri, who has been out since late October.
Rashford missed Barcelona’s 4-0 win against Athletic Club at Camp Nou due to illness. However, the England international has now recovered from the flu and has been included in Barca’s squad that will travel to London.
Pedri is out of Chelsea clash (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
The English star is currently enjoying his loan spell in Spain and will be eager to inflict pain on Enzo Maresca’s team. Meanwhile, Pedri remain sidelined as he continues to recover from the injury he sustained against Real Madrid.
Pedri sustained a tear in the distal femoral biceps of his left leg in late October, and the Clasico was the last time he featured. However, he is said to be recovering well and, has entered the final stage of his recovery.
Another positive news for Barcelona faithfuls will be the return of Club captain Frenkie de Jong.
Undoubtedly one of Flick’s most trusted personnel, De Jong served his suspension against Athletic Club and is set to make a return for the Chelsea game. Full-back Alejandro Balde, who received a blow to his head last week and was taken off at the lemon break, has also travelled with the team to London.
