Pedri returns to training to boost Xavi amid sea of absences

Barcelona returned to training with all their players available, which is not many. Injuries, Covid or other absences mean that that Xavi has a puzzle to solve ahead of the Real Mallorca game.

One piece of good news was Pedri’s return. He has a quads problem which has kept him out for most of the season but will be a great reinforcement for the coach.

Ansu Fati and Memphis also managed part of the session with the group, but aren’t ready to return. Barcelona will also soon be bolstered by new signing Ferran Torres.

Five players were given permission to be absent by Xavi - Pique, Dest, Araujo, Coutinho and Neto, while Yusuf Demir was not present so he can resolve his future, which lies elsewhere.

Dembele is having a PCR test because he doesn’t feel well and is waiting for his results.