Pedri’s Absence Sparks Debate: Flick’s Cautious Approach to Protecting Barcelona’s Star

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In a surprising and somewhat concerning decision, Hansi Flick, the head coach of FC Barcelona, has confirmed that Pedri González will start from the bench in today’s high-stakes Catalan derby against Espanyol.

This marks another chapter in the ongoing saga of Pedri’s injury struggles, and while many fans were hoping to see him in the starting lineup, Flick’s cautious approach highlights the importance of managing the 23-year-old’s health for the long-term benefit of both the player and the club.

The Canarian midfielder, who has been Barcelona’s creative engine since Flick’s arrival, has been recovering from muscle discomfort in the soleus of his left leg, which saw him miss the last match of 2025 against Villarreal.

While this is not a major injury, it is a reminder of Pedri’s fragile muscle history, which has plagued his career since his breakout years with Santos and Spain.

Even though the problem seemed minor, Flick made it clear that Pedri would not be rushed back into action too soon.

“Pedri needs time.

He has just come back from an injury and is not ready to play a full game,” Flick explained, opting for precaution over pressure.

This decision is not entirely unexpected, given the context of Pedri’s history with injuries.

Since joining Barcelona, the young star has been plagued by muscle injuries—from his hamstrings to his soleus and even his femoral biceps.

These constant setbacks have forced him to deal with more time off the pitch than he or the club would like.

Under Xavi Hernández, Pedri’s relapses were frequent, and this led to concerns about his long-term fitness.

However, under Flick, the changes in training methods, diet, and a more careful rotation system had given Pedri nearly an impeccable 2025 season—until this latest muscle issue flared up in December.

As Barcelona fans watched with bated breath, they found themselves grappling with a familiar feeling: hope mixed with fear.

Pedri’s return was eagerly awaited after his hamstring injury in November, a recovery that coincided with Barcelona’s remarkable seven-game winning streak in La Liga.

But now, as the young star prepares to come off the bench against Espanyol, it’s clear that his fitness remains a delicate balance.

Flick’s decision to bring Pedri off the bench rather than start him is grounded in the club’s long-term vision for his health.

“We cannot risk everything in a single game,” said Flick, referring to the marathon of matches Barcelona has ahead of them: the Super Cup semifinals against Athletic Club and potentially the final on January 11, as well as the upcoming Champions League knockout rounds in February.

His presence, even if partial, will provide a much-needed boost for Barcelona’s morale as they look to close out the first half of the season as winter champions.

Pedri’s value to Barcelona is immense.

His ability to control games, break through defensive lines, and create opportunities for teammates has made him one of the most important players for both Barcelona and Spain.

When Pedri is not on the field, the team often lacks the fluidity that defines their style of play.

Frenkie de Jong has had to shoulder more creative responsibility in his absence, but he is not the same player without Pedri’s magic.

When Pedri missed several games in November, Barcelona conceded six goals across two Champions League fixtures, underlining the importance of his presence in the squad.

Pedri’s injury history has understandably made fans nervous about his future.

Yet, despite his setbacks, Flick remains confident that the Canarian will be a key figure for Barcelona in the 2026 season.

The World Cup dream was briefly put on hold in 2022 due to injuries, but as Pedri now enters his prime, he has the potential to become one of the best in the world.

The upcoming year will be crucial for his development, but this time, Barcelona are making sure to protect their precious asset.

“Pedri will not miss 2026.

He will be in the Super Cup, in the Champions League round of 16, and in the fight for all the titles,” assured Flick.

In the meantime, Pedri’s absence from the starting lineup against Espanyol is not about doubts over his abilities, but about ensuring he is fully prepared for the battles ahead.

As the young star continues to recover and gain fitness, Barcelona fans will have to show patience, knowing that the best Pedri is the healthy one.

For now, Pedri’s story remains one of hope and caution.

His presence on the pitch will be limited, but his importance to Barcelona cannot be overstated.

As the Catalan club moves forward with a jam-packed schedule, Flick’s careful management will ensure that Pedri remains at his best when it matters most—helping Barcelona lift titles and fulfill the lofty expectations that have followed him since his teenage years.

The future of Barcelona is bright with Pedri at the helm, but for now, the club’s fans will have to wait and let him heal.