Barcelona midfielder Pedri faces Supercopa setback

The setback comes in the form of a right leg muscle injury, initially downplayed but now revealed as more significant than anticipated, side-lining him for the recent year-end clash against Almería.

Mundo Deportivo's Sergi Sole sheds light on the gravity of the situation, noting the recurrence of the injury in a familiar area. Barcelona's technical staff, recalibrating their plans, are preparing to navigate the Supercopa in Saudi Arabia without the influential Tenerife-born sensation. The looming semi-final clash against Osasuna and a potential final against either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid may proceed without Pedri's presence.

Medical consultations and physiotherapy sessions suggest a late January return for Pedri, but Barcelona's coaching staff deem it imprudent for him to rush back for the Supercopa. The focus is on ensuring a fully rejuvenated Pedri, especially with a critical February on the horizon. Challenges in the Copa del Rey, a Champions League Round of 16 clash against Napoli, and a La Liga campaign with 20 matches yet to unfold underscore the importance of a cautious recovery.

The roots of Pedri's current injury date back to a December 16 clash against Valencia, just days before he refrained from training and subsequently missed the Almeria match. Barcelona are now employing a multifaceted prevention strategy, encompassing daily routines and dietary adjustments, highlighting the club's genuine concern over Pedri's injury-prone situation.

Notably, Pedri has taken personal measures even during matches, abstaining from attempting long-range shots with his right foot since his comeback in November. This adjustment stems from a prior injury to the right thigh's rectus femoris, incurred during training in August. The club's meticulous approach aim to safeguard their rising star and ensure his sustained contribution in the challenges that lie ahead.

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