Barcelona midfielder Pedri was replaced by Sergi Roberto in the first half of the UEFA Europa League clash against Manchester United at the Camp Nou on Thursday 16 February. The two European giants have met in the first leg of the play-off round.
Although Pedri started with Frenkie de Jong and Franck Kessie in midfield, the youngster’s stay on the pitch was shortened. He suffered a left leg injury and was substituted in the 41st minute.
Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes checking on Pedri when he was injured. Football is about respect ❤️ https://t.co/VFGS9k8gcn
The 2021 Kopa Trophy winner has been in brilliant form for the Blaugrana this season. He is one of the main architects of the team that currently leads Real Madrid by eight points in LaLiga.
Barcelona’s number 8 has played 30 games so far this season and has scored seven goals. He scored a spectacular goal against Villareal before the game against United. Fans even compared the youngster to Lionel Messi because of his reliability and consistency.
The 20-year-old joined the Catalan club from Las Palmas in 2019 and has since made 103 appearances, scoring 16 goals and providing seven assists.
The absence of Pedri could harm Barcelona against Manchester United
Pedri has been the main man at the heart of Barcelona’s midfield. Hence, losing him due to injury is a big setback for the Catalan club. If the player is sidelined for an extended period due to the hit, it could make the Blaugrana campaign even more difficult.
Apart from the number 8, Ousmane Dembele is also absent due to injury. The French attacker reemerged in his career under Xavi’s tutelage. However, he suffered an injury against Girona earlier this month and has remained sidelined ever since.
Meanwhile, the ongoing game at Camp Nou is currently at a standstill. While the home side have enjoyed most of the possession, they have yet to find a breakthrough.