Barcelona and Xavi receive more frustrating injury news ahead of Shakhtar Donetsk Champions League clash
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has been repeatedly hit by injury problems over the last month, and things still need to improve as he approaches a crucial week.
The Blaugrana were in good spirits again on Sunday night when 17-year-old striker Marc Guiu scored with just his second touch to win the match against Athletic Club. Even so, he was only on the sidelines due to the injury crisis.
Sergi Roberto and Jules Kounde were ruled out of El Clasico next Saturday by Xavi, but there was some hope that Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski could survive. In particular, it was thought that Xavi could give Pedri and Raphinha a few minutes in the build-up to Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday.
However, the disappointing news, reported by Sport , is that none of these players will face Shakhtar again. When Pedri was ruled out it was believed he would be back for the Athletic Club clash at the latest, but with Barcelona determined not to rush his recovery, the Blaugrana are only listening to what the Canary’s body tells him. Raphinha was also considered the next closest to fitness, but it looks like he won’t make it either.
Both are still competing for a place on the bench against Real Madrid, but it appears that De Jong and Lewandowski are also close to being ruled out.
This means that Xavi will be forced to adopt more improvised solutions for the clash with Real Madrid. They currently only have 13 senior players available, although Fermin Lopez and Lamine Yamal should play their part. In any case, there will be little room for rotation before the clash with Los Blancos.
