MADRID, Oct. 29 (Xinhua) -- FC Barcelona has suffered another setback with the news that Spain international midfielder Pedri will be out of action for several weeks after suffering a muscle injury.
"The first team player Pedri has suffered a tear in the distal biceps femoris muscle in his left thigh," read a statement on the club website, which failed to give an estimated return date, only saying the midfielder's "recovery will dictate his return to action."
Although the club doesn't say how long Pedri will be sidelined, he is unlikely to return before the next international break and is also a doubt for Spain's World Cup qualifying matches against Georgia and Turkiye, which should see the European Champion book its place at next summer's World Cup finals.
Pedri is suspended for this weekend's game at home to Elche after being sent off against Real Madrid on Sunday, but will also miss a Champions League visit to Club Brugge and a La Liga match away to Celta Vigo. He is also doubtful for the home match against Athletic Club Bilbao on November 22nd.
Pedri has been vital to Barca coach Hansi Flick, playing in 72 of the 73 games since the German took charge last season. His injury also comes with Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Dani Olmo, Joan Garcia, Andreas Christensen, Gavi and Marc-Andre ter Stegen all currently injured, limiting Flick's selection options. ■
