Pedri set for return as Flick eyes response against Levante
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Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 22.02.26. | 14:23
Two consecutive La Liga defeats have endangered Barcelona's title aspirations. But here comes a potential saviour (6.15 pm)
Barcelona are targeting a return to winning ways against Levante - and Pedri's comeback could not be better timed.
The midfielder has been sidelined for a month with a hamstring injury, but he is back training with the squad and in line for minutes at the Camp Nou on Sunday (6.15 pm).
The Blaugrana coach, Hansi Flick, confirmed the positive update in his pre-match press conference.
"He may be able to play a few minutes on Sunday. The important thing is that he's back training with the group. He's a very important player for us - a different kind of leader because of his quality. He can be one of the leaders of this club in the future."
There was further encouragement on the injury front. Gavi has rejoined group training for the first time since knee surgery in September. He has not yet received medical clearance, but his return is edging closer.
"We'll take it step by step," Flick said. "It's very important to manage the situation carefully. He's always fully involved, and with the ball, he usually makes the right decisions. He loves football because of his mentality and his quality. I hope he'll be back very soon."
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Flick was also asked about Barcelona's ongoing presidential election process. The German insisted it has no impact on the squad, though he couldn't resist a dry remark.
"It's not my job to comment on that. It doesn't affect the team. We focus on our work. The president hasn't been here for the last two games, and we've lost them."
Barcelona now look to reset - with Pedri back in the frame and momentum desperately needed. And that Real Madrid loss to Osasuna last night doesn't hurt either...
LA LIGA - MATCHDAY 25
Friday
Athletic Bilbao - Elche 2-1 (0-0)
/Guruzeta 64, 89 pen - Silva 68 pen/
Saturday
Real Sociedad - Oviedo 3-3 (0-0)
/Oskarsson 64, 90, Caleta-Car 87 - Vinas 50,52, Bailly 90+2/
Betis - Rayo Vallecano 1-1 (1-1)
/Bakambu 16 - Palazon 42/
Osasuna - Real Madrid 2-1 (1-0)
/Budimir 38 pen, Garcia Ra. 90 - Vinicius Jr 73/
Atletico Madrid - Espanyol 4-2 (1-1)
/Sorloth 21, 72, Simeone 49, Lookman 58 - Jofre 6, Exposito 80/
Sunday
16.00: (2.50) Getafe (2.85) Sevilla (3.40)
18.15: (1.12) Barcelona (12.0) Levante (19.0)
20.30: (1.85) Celta (3.60) Mallorca (4.80)
23.00: (1.75) Villareal (3.85) Valencia (5.00)
Monday
23.00: (2.40) Alaves (3.05) Girona (3.50)
***odds are subject to change***