Barcelona Receive Huge Injury Boost As Pedri, Joan Garcia And Raphinha Near Return For Chelsea Clash

Barcelona Receive Huge Injury Boost As Pedri, Joan Garcia And Raphinha Near Return For Chelsea Clash

Barcelona finally have something to smile about this season as three key players — Pedri, Joan Garcia, and Raphinha — move closer to full recovery ahead of a crucial Champions League showdown with Chelsea.

After months of setbacks, inconsistent form, and a growing injury list, Hansi Flick can finally breathe. The timing could not be better.

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Pedri’s Accelerated Recovery Changes Everything

Pedri’s injury during the El Clasico defeat to Real Madrid felt like a knockout punch in an already turbulent season. The midfielder tore the distal biceps femoris muscle in his left thigh — a serious hamstring blow that initially ruled him out for six weeks.

His absence left Barcelona without their midfield metronome. Without Pedri, the team struggled to control games, transitions became disjointed, and Flick’s model lost its balance. Matches against Club Brugge and several La Liga opponents showed just how essential his presence is.

But now, in what looks like the turning point of Barcelona’s season, Pedri has responded exceptionally well to treatment. His recovery has moved faster than expected, and journalist Xavi Campos confirmed he is now on course to feature against Chelsea on November 25 — a match likely to determine the top of the group.

Barcelona will not risk him against Athletic Club, but the plan is clear: Pedri will be eased in for the Champions League night at Stamford Bridge.

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Joan Garcia’s Return Brings Back Stability In Goal

While Pedri’s absence hurt Barcelona’s structure, Joan Garcia’s injury shook their foundations.

Before tearing his medial meniscus in late September, Garcia was in standout form:

• 7 games

• 3 clean sheets

• Only 5 goals conceded

His injury required arthroscopic surgery and interrupted a defensive line that was finally starting to gel. Wojciech Szczesny covered in goal, but the team clearly missed Garcia’s calmness, positioning, and chemistry with the back four.

The international break came at the perfect moment. With no matches, Garcia was able to complete the final stage of his rehabilitation without pressure. Reports now confirm that he is fully fit and expected to start against Athletic Bilbao when La Liga returns.

For Flick, this is massive. A stable goalkeeper changes everything.

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Raphinha Enters Final Recovery Phase With Positive Signs

Raphinha’s road back has also taken a major step forward. The winger is now in the final phase of his rehabilitation and is working individually on explosiveness, strength, and workload control at Ciutat Esportiva.

With Lamine Yamal still weeks away, Raphinha’s return could not come at a better time. Staff members describe his progress as “very positive,” and he is expected to join full training immediately after the international break.

For a team that has struggled with rhythm and consistency in attack, the Brazilian’s comeback is a huge boost.

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Perfect Timing For Flick And Barcelona

For weeks, it felt like Barcelona were operating in survival mode. Now, key pillars of the squad are returning just as the season demands renewed intensity.

Pedri’s intelligence, Garcia’s stability, and Raphinha’s creativity could be the trio that finally brings order back to Flick’s project.

And with Chelsea waiting in the Champions League, the timing could not be more ideal.

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