Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has addressed concerns surrounding Pedri’s early substitution during the Champions League clash against Newcastle United. The German manager reassured fans that the Spanish midfielder did not suffer any injury, despite being taken off during the second half of the match.
Barcelona traveled to St James’ Park in the early hours of Wednesday to face Newcastle United in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026 Round of 16. The match was intense from the beginning, with both teams battling for an early advantage in the knockout tie.
Pedri started the game as part of Barcelona’s midfield trio and played an important role in controlling possession. However, midway through the second half, Flick decided to replace the talented playmaker, a move that immediately raised concerns among Barcelona supporters.
Given Pedri’s injury history this season, many fans feared that the midfielder had suffered another setback. However, Flick was quick to calm those fears after the match.
Flick: Pedri Substitution Was a Precaution
During the post-match press conference, Flick explained that the decision to substitute Pedri was purely a precautionary measure, not the result of a new injury.
The Barcelona manager emphasized that the club is being careful with the midfielder’s fitness, especially since Pedri has already experienced two injuries earlier this season.
“Regarding Pedri’s substitution, we were simply being cautious with his condition,” Flick said.
“He has already suffered two injuries this season and has only recently returned to full fitness. Everyone wants him on the pitch because of his quality, but we must manage him carefully.”
Flick added that protecting Pedri’s long-term fitness remains a priority for the coaching staff and medical team.
Substitution Was Planned Before the Match
Flick also revealed that the decision to limit Pedri’s playing time was planned before the match even started.
According to the Barcelona boss, the coaching staff and medical team had agreed that Pedri would only play around 60 to 65 minutes in order to gradually rebuild his match fitness.
The manager stressed that the substitution had nothing to do with the match situation or the scoreline.
“From the beginning, the plan was for Pedri to play about 60 to 65 minutes, and then we would replace him,” Flick explained.
“We didn’t base the decision on the score or anything else. We trust every player in our squad and wanted to follow the plan we set before the game.”
This careful approach highlights Barcelona’s long-term strategy of protecting key players from recurring injuries during a demanding season.
Barcelona Secure Valuable Draw at St James’ Park
Despite the challenges of playing away in England, Barcelona managed to return home with a valuable 1-1 draw from the first leg.
Newcastle initially took the lead late in the match thanks to a goal from Harvey Barnes, putting the home side on the brink of victory.
However, Barcelona refused to give up. In dramatic fashion, Lamine Yamal stepped up in stoppage time and calmly converted a penalty in the 90+6th minute, rescuing a crucial draw for the Spanish giants.
The result leaves the tie wide open ahead of the second leg, which will take place at Barcelona’s home stadium next week.
With Pedri confirmed to be fit and available, Barcelona fans will be hoping the talented midfielder can play a key role as the team pushes for a place in the Champions League quarter-finals.
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