Pedri returns to action
He was sorely missed. A full month without Pedri had felt like a long, uneasy journey for FC Barcelona, but that stretch is now behind them. The Barça metronome made his return in the win over Levante at Spotify Camp Nou, a day that brought the smiles back to the faces of the blaugrana faithful.
The much-loved midfielder picked up the injury in a European victory away to Slavia Prague on 21 January, suffering a hamstring problem in his right leg. Just over a month later, he was back. The stadium rose to its feet to celebrate a comeback that had been eagerly awaited.
Standing ovation
The Canary Islander began warming up at the start of the second half and the sight was greeted by chants of “Pedri, Pedri” from the 44,936 fans in the stands. He stepped onto the pitch in the 65th minute, replacing goalscorer Marc Bernal, to another rousing ovation.
He put his spell on the sidelines well behind him by playing almost half an hour, once again becoming a key cog in Hansi Flick’s machine as they reclaimed top spot in La Liga. As ever, every touch was measured, composed and intelligent. There is no doubt about it, Pedri’s qualities in the engine room had been badly missed.