MADRID, Nov. 24 (Xinhua) -- FC Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez faces the challenge of choosing who will replace injured midfielder Gavi for his side's visit to play Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
Gavi suffered a season-ending cruciate ligament injury during Spain's 3-1 win at home against Georgia, and his loss leaves an important space between midfield and attack in Barca, while also robbing Xavi of arguably his hardest-working player.
Goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is also a major doubt for Barcelona on Saturday. Ter Stegen returned early to Barcelona without playing for Germany because of a back problem and has not trained since his return.
If Ter Stegen fails to recover in time, 24-year-old Inaki Pena will make his first competitive start of the campaign, after just three appearances in pre-season.
The good news for Barcelona is that Frenkie de Jong is available after finally recovering from his ankle injury. De Jong is vital to providing Barcelona balance between midfield and defense and has been missed.
Barcelona struggled for form and rhythm before the international break without De Jong, and his return should provide better protection for the defense, while also providing a springboard for the attack.
Pedri could also start as he continues to work back from his latest injury, although his history of muscle injuries could lead Xavi to be cautious with the return of the 20-year-old.
Rayo Vallecano is having another good season, despite a narrow 2-1 defeat at home to league leaders Girona before the break. Francisco Rodriguez has done a good job continuing the work done by his predecessor, Andoni Iraola, and Rayo remains an exciting and energetic team, led by veteran Oscar Trejo and winger Isi Palazon, with Macedonian international Stole Dimitrievski providing a strong presence in goal. ■
