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Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez will not be able to rely on the services of midfield duo Pedri and Gavi when the Blaugrana take on Manchester United at Old Trafford in seven days’ time.
The two Spaniards started against United at the Camp Nou in a 2-2 draw that has set the stage for a delicious clash next week.
However, Pedri was withdrawn in the middle of the process after going to the ground with an injury.
He was replaced by Sergi Roberto.
Spanish sources indicate that Pedri will be out for three to four weeks and therefore will not be available for selection at Old Trafford.
???? ONLY IN: Pedri out for second leg: 3 to 4 weeks rest expected. @CatalunyaRadio #FCB ????????
— Reshad Rahman (@ReshadRahman_) February 16, 2023
In what is arguably a bigger headache for Xavi, Pedri will also miss out on El Clásico on March 2.
????????| ONLY IN: Pedri is ruled out for both the second leg against Manchester United and El Clásico.@CatalunyaRadio [????️] pic.twitter.com/jCQ5sWQdjX
— Barça Management (@ManagingBarca) February 16, 2023
Together with Pedri, Gavi will not count on the Catalans either.
Heading into the clash, the 18-year-old needed to avoid receiving a booking so as not to be suspended for the next game.
A flagrant foul on a United player pulling the shirt after leaving him for dead left the referee no choice but to show the midfielder a yellow card.
Both Pedri and Gavi are fundamental players for Xavi but he will not lack for alternatives or replacements. Such is the depth of his template.
Xavi weighed in on the 2-2 draw and particularly took issue with what he felt was a handball from Fred inside the United box.
Xavi said: “For me it’s a clear penalty.”
“The ball hits Fred’s hand and he is out of position. I also told the referee.”
????????????️| Xavi: “For me it’s a clear penalty. The ball hits Fred’s hand and is out of position. I also told the referee.”
— Barça Management (@ManagingBarca) February 16, 2023
