Flick changes his strategy in dealing with Pedri

Barcelona's manager Hans Flick has changed his approach to managing Pedri's playing minutes this season, in an effort to maintain his physical readiness and ensure he reaches his best levels during the crucial phase of the season.

According to the Spanish newspaper "Sport", the German coach has become more cautious in managing the minutes of the midfielder, despite his significant importance in the squad. This is clearly reflected in the numbers, as Pedri has participated in the 16 matches that FC Barcelona has played this season, totaling 1111 minutes, but he has completed only 3 matches, which is 18.75%.

This marks a clear difference from previous seasons. In the 2024/2025 season, Pedri completed 23 matches out of 59, at a rate of 38.9%, while the percentage rose to 41.8% last season, after finishing 18 matches out of 43 without being substituted.

Flick benefits from multiple options in midfield following Frenkie de Jong's recovery, alongside Gavi, Fermín López, Marc Bernal, and Farinas, despite the continued absence of Dani Olmo and Rodri due to injury.

Barcelona is expecting a busy schedule after the international break, featuring 8 matches in less than a month, including encounters against Manchester City, Atlético, Villarreal, and Real Sociedad. Therefore, Flick continues to manage Pedri's minutes carefully, aiming to maintain his pivotal role in midfield and ensure he reaches 2027 in the best possible physical condition.