Xavi, the head coach of Barcelona, has emphasized that neither Ronald Araujo nor Pedri sustained injuries during Sunday’s La Liga encounter against Celta Vigo. Araujo was substituted at halftime, with Inigo Martinez taking his place, while Pedri was replaced by Fermin Lopez in the 75th minute.
Despite concerns about their fitness leading up to the Champions League last-16 first leg against Napoli next week, Xavi reassured that neither player is injured. Addressing reporters after the narrow victory over Celta in Spain’s top flight, Xavi stated, “There were no injuries today. Neither Araujo nor Pedri are injured. They’re fine.”
The match saw Iago Aspas equalize Robert Lewandowski‘s opener, leveling the teams in the early stages of the second half in Vigo. However, Lewandowski’s second goal secured the win for the champions late in the game.
Xavi expressed confidence ahead of the Napoli clash, stating that he has “good sensations.” Barcelona aims to secure a positive result to carry into the second leg of their last-16 tie.
Despite Xavi’s impending departure as head coach this summer, he remains focused on delivering two trophies. Barcelona’s victory over Celta brought them within seven points of La Liga leaders Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, Napoli has struggled to replicate their previous season’s success, currently occupying ninth position in the Serie A table. Consequently, despite Barcelona’s challenges this season, they are optimistic about progressing through the two legs to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the competition.
