De Jong Leads Barcelona’s Champions League Charge, Youthful Vigor on Standby

Sunday wasn’t a day of rest for FC Barcelona’s squad. The team trained with Frenkie de Jong back in action, pushing hard to be available for Xavi this Wednesday at Parc des Princes. De Jong sustained an ankle sprain a month ago against Athletic Bilbao. However, his recovery process has been effective, and he’s expected to receive medical clearance and travel with the squad to Paris.

Despite this, De Jong lacks match fitness, making it unlikely for Xavi to risk starting him in the lineup since his injury in Bilbao. The squad will be bolstered against PSG with the inclusion of De Jong and Christensen, who has been carefully managed due to Achilles tendon issues throughout the season.

Meanwhile, Pedri’s recovery is progressing positively, with no serious injury diagnosed. However, his presence against PSG seems doubtful as caution is warranted, especially given his muscular injury.

Pedri Cannot Be Rushed Unlike De Jong’s situation, Pedri’s injury is muscular, and pushing too hard could be counterproductive. An ankle injury can be better protected, with lower chances of recurrence.

In addition to managing injuries, Xavi Hernández has opted not to risk players who provide squad depth. This includes youth prospects Héctor Fort and Marc Guiu.

Absence from Barça Atlètic Both Fort and Guiu were not included in the Barça Atlètic squad for the match against Arenteiro, unlike previous occasions. Despite the league break due to the Copa del Rey final, Xavi continued working with these two prospects, who are bridging between the first team and the reserves.

Lamine and Cubarsí, on the other hand, have secured their spots in the first-team squad under Xavi’s tenure and have not returned to the second team since. Barcelona will resume training on Monday to travel to Paris on Tuesday, preparing to train at Parc des Princes ahead of their crucial Champions League fixture.