Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez has, on Saturday evening, provided updates on the fitness of two key members of his squad.
The subject of personnel woes, of course, has taken its place front and centre in the headlines in Catalunya’s capital across the last couple of weeks.
This comes as Barca have been forced to contend with the absences of a whole host of star performers.
After Ousmane Dembele was sidelined long-term by a muscular concern, the Frenchman was soon joined on the sidelines by the likes of Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Robert Lewandowski and Andreas Christensen.
Pedri (8) of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring a goal (Alamy Stock Photo)
In turn, speaking ahead of his side’s La Liga showdown with Valencia on Sunday, it came as little surprise when the subject of the injury situation across his squad was put to the aforementioned Xavi.
And, in a boost for all associated with the Blaugrana, the ensuing update on the part of the club’s boss proved to be a largely positive one.
Lewandowski, meanwhile, is too closing on a comeback, albeit with next weekend’s trip to Athletic Club looking a more realistic target date.
All of Pedri, Dembele and the suspended Gavi, though, will be unavailable for selection against Valencia.
Xavi: “Christensen will be ready for tomorrow. Lewandowski has improved and is feeling well. Pedri and Dembele are continuing their own recovery.” pic.twitter.com/RBP0Av3Oob
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) March 4, 2023
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