Barcelona counting on key duo’s return to full fitness to bounce back after Chelsea setback | OneFootball

“In a few months, we will see a different Barcelona. This is what I can promise.” These were the words of Hansi Flick after the painful defeat at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea dominated and outplayed Barcelona in every area.

It was a message of hope from the coach for the remainder of the season. The team remains alive in all competitions, even though, as happened against PSG, the match at Stamford Bridge showed that Barcelona still have a long way to go.

Raphinha, Pedri fill team with hope

Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, ahead of a demanding run before the end of the year, including trips to Real Betis and Villarreal and home matches against Atletico Madrid and Eintracht, the coaching staff are relying on the return of two key players: Raphinha and Pedri.

The Brazilian, after two months out, had his first minutes against Athletic and some more against Chelsea, which puts him in contention to start this Saturday against Alaves.

That would allow him to be at full strength for Tuesday’s match against Atletico. Raphinha is vital in the first line of pressure, and Flick is eager to have him starting in matches again.

Barcelona waiting for Pedri and Raphinha to return to full fitness. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

It is also clear that Barcelona need Pedri just as much. The Spanish midfielder is essential for directing play and maintaining possession. He is expected to train with the squad from today and enter the squad list for Saturday, and his return will be crucial.

Optimism remains

Despite the poor display in London, the dressing room believes Ronald Araujo’s red card shaped the rest of the match, something Chelsea took advantage of with their numerical superiority.

They also feel that if Ferran Torres had scored the early chance he had within minutes of kick-off, the match could have unfolded very differently from the eventual 3-0 win for the Blues.

While continuing to analyse what went wrong and what needs improvement for the upcoming matches, Barcelona remain optimistic about what lies ahead.

The La Liga champions consider that the worst is behind them after suffering up to seven injuries this season and that the team will now only improve.

Barcelona’s immediate goal is to overtake Real Madrid in La Liga. After cutting the gap in the last two matchdays and moving to within one point of their rivals, they want to take advantage of the next two consecutive home fixtures and reclaim top spot in the table.