Spanish Super Cup semi-final: Barcelona players who will miss El Clasico
FC Barcelona will host Real Madrid in an El Clasico in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final this week.
Here's our preview of the game to get you started.
Based on team news, injuries and some other regulations, we take a look at the Barcelona players who won't play in this fixture on Wednesday.
Barcelona players who will miss El Clasico
1. Pedri
Spanish midfield star Pedri had tested COVID positive despite being injured and under rehabilitation.
Pedri hasn't played since September due to a pre-planned break given to him by the club but his COVID situation meant his return to the team has been postponed further.
However, he has tested negative and is traveling with the squad in Riyadh for the Spanish Super Cup.
Despite having tested negative, Xavi will not risk starting or playing him against Real Madrid in El Clasico.
2. Ferran Torres
Newly signed Ferran Torres has been out of action since October after suffering a metatarsal fracture.
His absence was extended due to him testing positive for COVID-19. But, he too, along with Pedri has returned a negative test and is with the squad in Riyadh.
However, due to lack of match fitness, Xavi will surely not play a gamble on him in a big game.
3. Martin Braithwaite
Since having a knee surgery in September, Braithwaite is yet to return and is scheduled to be back with Barcelona in February.
4. Sergi Roberto
Roberto is said to be unavailable for the next four months.
It was confirmed by Barcelona last month that Sergi requires surgery for a thigh issue.
His expected return is in April.
5. Eric Garcia
Barcelona have confirmed that defender Eric Garcia will be out for five weeks due to a hamstring injury he suffered against Granada recently.
6. Ronald Araujo
Araujo will be out of action after he fractured his right hand and will definitely not play for some weeks.