Barcelona is currently grappling with an injury crisis ahead of their upcoming Champions League Round of 16 encounter against Napoli, as both Pedri and Frenkie de Jong were forced off the field during their recent match.
Pedri, who has a history of muscular issues, displayed visible distress upon sustaining a suspected hamstring strain, as evidenced by his tearful demeanor on the bench, where he received consolation from team staff and fellow players.
This latest injury, affecting Pedri’s right thigh once again, suggests a recurrence of previous issues, which could lead to an extended period on the sidelines.
Meanwhile, midfielder De Jong was carried off on a stretcher after suffering a severe ankle sprain, making his participation in the Napoli fixture highly improbable.
The first leg of the contest ended in a 1-1 draw at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, marking the debut of Barcelona’s third coach of the season, Francesco Calzona.
With the abolition of the away goals rule in UEFA tournaments, the upcoming second leg on March 12 will be a decisive encounter.
Furthermore, Barcelona will be deprived of the home advantage typically afforded by Camp Nou, as the stadium is currently undergoing renovations, necessitating a relocation to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.