#pedri

#pedri

The Spanish Super Cup has always been something of an acquired taste for fans of LaLiga clubs that have been able to contest the showpiece. Much more so since it moved to Saudi Arabia in mid-season. At least when it was played at the start of a campaign, it was useful as another pre-season run-out if nothing else. Now, it's quite the inconvenience, though it does offer the chance of another trophy, so perhaps there is cachet in having it in the cabinet.

As per the report, Barcelona midfield superstar Pedri will not be a part of the starting lineup to face Espanyol today. The 23-year-old midfielder had missed the Catalans' last game of 2025 against Villarreal due to mild discomfort. However, he has recovered completely from the issue and trained throughout the week and was named in the squad list, along with Dani Olmo.

"He has all the makings of a Ballon d'Or winner," said Planes (h/t MARCA), who had played a key role in convincing Barcelona to sign the player from Las Palmas. Since then, the midfielder has appeared in 221 competitive matches for Barcelona, even recently breaking Lionel Messi's record for being the youngest ever Barcelona player to make 150 La Liga appearances for the club.

Flick is not in favour of pushing anyone through physical issues, particularly at this stage of the season, where a short-term gain could easily lead to a longer absence. For the good Pedri had already raised doubts on Friday after failing to train with the group due to a strain in his left calf. From that moment, his involvement against Villarreal was considered unlikely.

Indeed, the Spanish international is still feeling the after-effects of the efforts he has made since returning from injury, and as such, is following an individual training plan with the club not taking any risks. Barcelona's plan was for Pedri to rest this week after the match against Osasuna, but he had to come on for 15 minutes in Guadalajara to help resolve the game, which was still level when he stepped onto the pitch.

"Right now, I would sign Pedri for Real Madrid. He has Madrid qualities. Everyone would say Lamine, but I think Pedri would be a better signing," said Marcelo. Interestingly, there was a scenario wherein Pedri could have ended up playing for Real Madrid. The midfield superstar was called for a trial at the Spanish capital club during his youth football days, but they ended up rejecting him.

I don't know if there is a wound or not. I can't say anything beyond what Leo means to Barça. That will never change, no matter who is there, no matter when. I don't know if he will return at some point and in what capacity, but the most important thing is what Leo means to Barça.