Important 'scare' for Pedri after his first big game of the season

Pedri González ended up hurt in the duel in Vallecas against Rayo (1-2) due to an ugly tackle by Senegalese Pathé Ciss in the 88th minute. The Canary Islander got up walking with difficulty after the harsh infraction that was only punished with a yellow card by the main player ( the red one was, at least, reviewable), but luckily everything turned out to be a 'scare' and he will be available on Saturday against Valladolid.

"He took a knock, that's just it. I think he's fine," Hansi Flick explained to 'DAZN' after the game. The German coach preferred not to take risks with the Canary Islander, putting Fermín López in his place in the 90+1 minute. Unfortunately for Barça, Marc Bernal also suffered a serious blow three minutes later, but the coaching staff had already exhausted the three available change windows. Unlike Pedri, the youth player does seem to have been seriously injured and the first tests point to a torn cruciate ligament in his right knee.

Pedri made his debut as a scorer this season with Barça

For Pedri, Tuesday's goal was his 21st goal in 146 official matches with Barça. The 21-year-old midfielder faces what will be his fifth season hoping to overcome the physical problems that have limited him in the previous two years and, after missing the preseason due to an injury, he aims to continue optimizing his physique to avoid new setbacks. After the duel in Vallecas, he valued the victory and his first goal of the 24-25.

"I had already spoken with Rafa (Rahpinha) at half-time that those back balls were coming in and, well, much better because I have myself in Fantasy. So, I get good points," he said, laughing. Furthermore, he added: "Very happy with the team's victory and to play with Olmo, who I was already looking forward to."  Regarding the game, Tegueste's player made it clear how the team is handling the change of coach and a summer with many games.

"It is normal that in these first days we adapt to what the coach asks. The preseason is different because of the Euro Cup and I was coming from an injury. Many players have to adapt to the style and we are finding it. In the second half we were better than in the first, and to continue like this", pointed out the '8'.