“I am happy to feel good physically” - Barcelona star Pedri explains steps taken to steer clear of injuries and secret behind club’s superb form
Barcelona midfielder Pedri has explained the steps he has taken to steer clear of injuries, while discussing the secret behind the Blaugrana's impressive form. In this year alone, he struggled with a hamstring injury, before enduring ligament issues.
However, he has been a regular part of the club's campaign to win multiple trophies this season. He has played in all their 12 La Liga games and three UEFA Champions League, scoring three goals and providing two assists.
Pedri spoke about his consistent appearances for Barca, and how he has retained fitness throughout. He told DAZN (via Tribal Football):
"There is a lot of work that is not seen, when you are out you try to do everything possible to come back well, that is why it hurts to be criticized. I think I have improved in work, in nutrition... I have looked for many ways to change to have continuity and now I am happy to feel good physically."
He also spoke about Barcelona's brilliant form and the secret behind it. The Blaugrana have lost just two games in all competitions this season, and they already look on course to win La Liga. Pedri said:
"The key is the intensity that we put into the games, the defensive line is doing a spectacular job and when we have the ball we have the possibility of creating many chances.
"The players we have up front dictate our style: when you see how Lamine faces one-on-one situations or you send a ball into space to Raphinha... the players do what they want. They are having a good moment."
Barcelona have enjoyed a remarkable run of goalscoring form, racking up 40 goals in just 12 league games this season. They are currently first on the table with 33 points, ahead of Real Madrid, who have 24 points and a game in hand.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick reacts to second-half performance against Espanyol
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has reacted to his team's second-half performance in their derby league clash against Espanyol. The Blaugrana won 3-1 at the Olimpic Lluis Companys on November 3, but all their three goals came in the first half.
Despite their ruthless goalscoring quality, they failed to add to that tally against their local rivals. Flick was asked about this, and he told the press that they "lost concentration" (via Playing For 90):
"We have picked up three points and we have won the derby, which is important. It's true that in the second half we dropped the pace and we lost concentration at certain moments, but these things happen."
Barcelona will travel to Serbia for their upcoming UEFA Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade on November 6. Flick will be hoping that his players maintain concentration throughout that game.