Pedri, one of the key figures at FC Barcelona, has been left out of the squad for the upcoming showdown with Chelsea. Although the midfielder is in the final stages of his recovery, head coach Hansi Flick has opted against rushing his return, preferring to avoid any unnecessary risks.

There is still a chance that Pedri will travel to London — but only as a spectator. If he does make the trip, he’ll celebrate his 23rd birthday alongside his teammates, even if not on the pitch.

Barcelona did receive some encouraging news: Marcus Rashford has fully recovered from a viral infection and completed a full training session with the team.

In addition, Frenkie de Jong is available again after serving a suspension that kept him out of the recent La Liga match against Athletic Club.