Barcelona handed fitness boost as star man is named in squad for Valencia clash

Pedri has been named in the Barcelona squad for Saturday's clash against Valencia, with the midfielder recovering from the knee injury that he suffered while representing Spain at this summer's European Championship.

During his pre-match press conference, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick revealed that Pedri would not be fit to start his side's 2024-25 La Liga opener but said that he could potentially feature off the bench at Mestalla.

Pedri's involvement in the squad has now been confirmed, with the midfielder in line to play some minutes on Saturday, while there is also a spot in the selection for Pau Victor, who is one of two Barcelona signings this summer.

Dani Olmo, though, has not yet been registered with La Liga, so the Spain international will miss out on the chance to make his Barcelona debut this weekend.

© Reuters

Pedri named in Barcelona squad for Valencia clash

Ronald Araujo, Ansu Fati, Frenkie de Jong and Gavi are all currently on the sidelines for Barcelona through injury, while Clement Lenglet and Vitor Roque have been left out of the squad amid the speculation surrounding their futures.

The first-team absences have opened the door for Marc Bernal, Alex Valle, Hector Fort, Sergi Dominguez and Gerard Martin to be named in the squad.

Pablo Torre and Eric Garcia are also back at the club following loan spells at Girona last term, and the pair are in line to feature on Saturday night.

Lamine Yamal has only just returned to pre-season training after helping Spain win Euro 2024, but the teenager is expected to be in the XI at Mestalla, potentially operating alongside Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha in a front three.

Full Barcelona squad vs. Valencia:

Ter Stegen, Astralaga, Pena; Cubarsi, Balde, Valle, Martin, Dominguez, I Martinez, Christensen, Kounde, E Garcia, Fort; Pedri, Torre, Casado, Bernal; F Torres, Lewandowski, Raphinha, Victor, Yamal