Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has dispelled concerns about the fitness of Ilkay Gündoğan and Pedri following their recent La Liga encounter against Deportivo Alaves on Saturday, February 3.
The Blaugrana secured a 3-1 victory over Alaves at the Mendizorroza Stadium, with Robert Lewandowski and Gundogan finding the net before Samu Omorodion pulled one back for the hosts.
Gundogan appeared to sustain a back injury in the 59th minute and was substituted shortly after, with Vitor Roque replacing him and later scoring for Barcelona. However, Xavi clarified the situation, stating (via Barca Universal):
“There are no injuries today. Gündogan had a knock on his back, but it’s nothing… I replaced Pedri because he was tired. I’ve brought in Fermín to provide a little more legs to the team.”
Gundogan, a key signing from Manchester City last summer, has been instrumental for Barcelona this season, tallying nine assists in 34 appearances across various competitions, marking his best season performance in the top five leagues.
Pedri, who recently returned from a hamstring injury, has featured in 19 matches this season, contributing two goals and three assists.
