FC Barcelona Midfielder Pedri Returns from Injury, Set for Sub Appearance Against Alavés

FC Barcelona have received a significant injury boost ahead of their La Liga fixture against Deportivo Alavés on Saturday, with midfielder Pedri confirmed to return to the squad after a recent muscular issue.

Manager Hansi Flick announced the news during Friday's pre-match press conference, emphasizing a cautious approach to reintegrating the 22-year-old Spaniard. "He’ll definitely get some minutes against Alavés, but not from the start," Flick stated. "We’ll see. He may also play those minutes in the first half." Pedri, who last featured for the Blaugrana before the international break, sat out midweek's 3-0 Champions League defeat to Chelsea due to the injury but has resumed light training this week.

The return comes at an opportune moment for Barcelona, who sit second in the La Liga table, just one point behind leaders Real Madrid. Despite the recent European setback, Flick remains optimistic, urging his side to "be optimistic for the next match." Alavés, currently 14th in the standings, present a winnable opportunity for the Catalan club to regain momentum at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.