Since star Barcelona midfielder Pedri faced an injury after a rough tackle from Toni Kroos found the midfielder in pain on the ground, things haven't gone good for Barca's midfield. Add to that the delayed expected return of the box to box midfielder De Jong, the Catalan club finds themselves having limited options for the midfield role.
With only Ilkay Gundogan, Fermin Lopez being available as the first team players, the condition for Flick's side looked complicated. However, a recent report from Mundo Deportivo has arrived that might relieve the current scenario of Barca's midfield.
Star Barcelona midfielder might return ahead of the first La Liga matchday
Since his unfortunate injury the Catalan youngster has been working hard to return as soon as possible. Reports had indicated that he has been training everyday with facilities and staff arranged by Barça. Moreover, he is expected to return to Barça next week and complete his recovery process.
Seeing such dedication from Pedri, speculations had been going that the midfielder might return in mid August. Recently, regarding the youngster's recovery progress, Mundo Deportivo reported that the youngster isn't ruled out from featuring in the first La Liga matchday.
FC Barcelona is scheduled to face Valencia in their first La Liga fixture on 18th August and as mentioned above, there are chances of Pedri being available for the fixture. To smoothen the chances of Pedri further, Hansi Flick has told Thiago to be close to the midfielder and help him develop and recover fast.
Having Pedri in his squad, Flick's options would be much more versatile as the Catalan midfielder not only possesses the ability to contribute as a creative playmaker, but can be an integral part of Flick's double pivot game if required. At Barca, everyone is aware of Pedri's capabilities and his return might be the biggest positive for Barcelona ahead of the new season.
Overall, there is a considerable chance that Pedri starts for FC Barcelona in the Valencia matchup and Barca would hope that he remains injury free further given he has the ability to play a significant role in Barca's next season success.