Pedri puts Barça in a serious bind, there are many doubts, the decision is Flick's.

Pedri is the soul of Barça and, for many, the best midfielder in the world. When he touches the ball, it seems like time stands still, as he is able to do whatever he wants with his rivals. His way of hiding the ball and his vision of the game have made him an absolute pillar of the Catalan team.

However, the Barça fans and the locker room are worried about his new injury. Pedri has suffered a tear in the distal biceps femoris of his left leg and will be out until December. This news is a major blow for Barça, since the "8" is untouchable in Hansi Flick's system.

Before getting injured, Pedri had played in every match of the season, including those with the Spanish national team. His accumulation of minutes reflects the demands he has been under. He isn't made of iron, and his body has paid the price again.

Pedri's return divides opinions

The return of the Canary Islander is highly desired, but Barça is acting with maximum caution. The club has already experienced the same mistake too many times: speeding up his recovery, bringing him back to the field too quickly, and then seeing the muscle give out again. For this reason, Hansi Flick has been blunt with the medical staff: he doesn't want haste, he wants guarantees.

Pedri won't play again until he is 100% recovered. Hansi Flick would rather be without him for a few more weeks than risk a relapse that could complicate the entire season. The message is clear: the priority is the player's health, not immediate results.

Barça without its beacon has a problem

Pedri's absence leaves Barça without its main playmaker. When he isn't there, the team loses fluidity, control, and the ability to link lines. Flick is working so that other footballers step up, but replacing his influence is nearly impossible.

The squad now faces a test of maturity. The upcoming matches will serve to measure the team's ability without its natural leader in midfield. Hansi Flick will have to manage the balance between competitiveness and patience.

The final decision on Pedri's return will be Hansi Flick's. The German coach is clear that he won't repeat past mistakes and will only play him when he is fully recovered. He would rather wait than regret it.

Pedri has put Barça in a serious predicament, but Hansi Flick won't be swayed by urgency. His goal is to ensure that, when the "8" returns, he does so to stay.