Pedri's Comeback Plan: Flick's Calm Return After Rafinha

Pedri's Comeback Plan Under Flick

The German coach, Hans Flick, is not rushing Pedri's return, treating him as a key piece even when sidelined. He plans to bring the Spaniard back gradually, with Levante as the likely first match back.

According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, Flick does not intend to risk Pedri in Saturday's Mallorca game nor in the Girona match on February 16.

Instead, the target is to reinstate Pedri to the starting XI for the Levante game scheduled for February 22.

Since stating that the club has shifted its minutes philosophy to reduce injuries, Pedri has enjoyed greater continuity when available.

The latest setback came in Prague on January 21, when he suffered a right hamstring strain, forcing a month-long layoff.

As a result, the midfielder missed matches against Oviedo, Copenhagen, Elche and Alaves.

Pedri will be the next player to rejoin Barca's lineup, after Rafinha's return, with Gavi also nearing a comeback.

Recovery is progressing well so far, with no plan to rush the pair back, and Barca's lighter schedule invites patience.

Mundo Deportivo notes that securing a top eight finish in the league phase helped Flick's plan, since there is no longer a need to rush players to reach the playoff leg this month.

In Pedri's absence, Frenkie de Jong has shouldered more responsibility and delivered one of his best spells. Eric Garcia continued to feature in midfield.

Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo have proven themselves versatile contributors, with Olmo operating deeper and providing decisive passes to Lamine Yamal in the Oviedo game, and again against Elche.

Additionally, Marc Bernal has earned important minutes and gained some consistency.

Punchline 1: Flick's plan is so precise, even the calendar is on scope and loaded with Pedri minutes.

Punchline 2: If football had a stand up, Pedri would be the guy who makes the scoreboard laugh before the clock does.