Injury update: Barcelona will recover one of two key midfielders for Real Sociedad clash

Heading into this past Saturday’s El Clasico, Barcelona appeared set to begin without six key players, as Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Raphinha, Jules Kounde, and Sergi Roberto were all on the injury list.

Against all odds, Xavi recovered the services of three stars in time for the primetime clash. Raphinha, Lewando,wski and Kounde all made the squad, although they did not start against Real Madrid.

Updates on two players

Adria Albets provides an update on the situations of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri and their projected return.

According to the journalist, Pedri will get the medical green light before the team’s journey to San Sebastian on Saturday as they get set to take on Real Sociedad.

There is, however, no confirmation whether he will start against the Basque club.

Frenkie de Jong, meanwhile, is further behind on the return schedule. His case is not clear, Albets adds, and states that his return will be decided based on his feelings this week.

So, as things stand, Pedri appears set to return for the game against Sociedad, but question marks linger over his midfield partner’s condition.

A positive problem for Xavi

In the absence of Pedri and De Jong, Barcelona have found a quality resource in Fermin Lopez. The youngster has stormed to prominence and even made a spectacular display against Real Madrid.

The injured duo’s return, thus, will put Xavi in a dilemma – albeit a good one. With Lopez, Gavi, and Ilkay Gundogan playing at a high level, it remains to be seen who makes way for Pedri and De Jong.

After all, one can expect Oriol Romeu’s level to improve after the Dutchman’s return, making it a genuine battle between six quality stars.

With a hectic schedule ahead, all six players will have their moments to shine. The focus must thus shift to optimal squad management and preventing injuries.