Barcelona’s impressive 3-1 victory over Atletico Madrid at the Spotify Camp Nou was supposed to be a statement performance one that reaffirmed the champions rhythm, restored their creative spark and showcased the long awaited return of midfield conductor Pedri. And for more than 70 minutes, the 23 years old was the heartbeat of everything Barca produced.
Pedri operated with fluency and intelligence, assisting Raphinha’s equalizer and playing a decisive role in Dani Olmo’s goal weaving through Atletico’s lines with the confidence of a player rediscovering his best form. Making his first start in over a month after recovering from a hamstring setback, he most complete display of the season.
However, tension swept through the stadium when the midfielder went to ground in the second half, visibly uncomfortable. Memories of past injuries resurfaced instantly; even club president Joan Laporta appeared anxious as Pedri received treatment. The substitution around the 72nd minute only intensified concerns of a relapse.
But relief arrived sooner than expected. Pedri walked off the pitch unaided, later sharing a reassuring handshake with head coach Hansi Flick on the bench a small gesture that hinted the scare might not be as serious as feared. Post match, Flick confirmed exactly that.
“Pedri is fine; he was just tired,” the German manager said after the game, making it clear that the change was precautionary rather than medical.
A few hours later, the midfielder himself put the matter to rest. Pedri posted a brief but powerful two word massage on social media enough to calm the supporters who had watched his exit with dread. Raphinha, who was substituted at the same moment, also explained that both he and Pedri requested to come off due to fatigue, not injury.
While Pedri’s scare proved harmless Barcelona were not as fortunate elsewhere.
The club confirmed that Dani Olmo, who scored Barca’s second goal and put in another highly influential performance, suffered a dislocated left shoulder following an awkward fall after striking the ball. The 27 years old was visibly in pain and immediately signaled for help. Subsequent medical tests prompted the club to OPT for conservative treatment rather than surgery, setting his expected absence at one month.
Olmo’s setback comes at a difficult time for Barcelona. The midfielder had been one of their most in form players since returning from a previous injury layoff and his creativity will be sorely missed in the upcoming fixtures against Real Betis, Eintracht Frankfurt, Osasuna and Villarreal. His availability for the Spanish Super Cup in January remains uncertain.
For now, Barcelona can breathe a sigh of relief regarding Pedri but Olmo’s enforced absence underscores the physical strain the squad continues to endure. Flick will need to manage his resources carefully as the champions navigate a demanding stretch of the season.
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