Flick reduces Pedri’s minutes with Barcelona to have him peak in 2027

According to a report by Sport, Hansi Flick is managing Pedri’s minutes more carefully this season, despite the Barcelona player featuring in all 16 matches the team has played so far. The report says this is intended to preserve his fitness and build his physical capacity ahead of 2027.

Pedri has played 1,111 minutes this season and has completed 90 minutes only three times; in his other appearances, he was substituted before the 85th minute. By contrast, he completed 23 of 59 matches in the 2024-2025 season and 18 of 43 last season.

The report noted that Flick believes Pedri is at his best when he plays at a regular rhythm, while stressing the need to balance that with rest amid a congested fixture schedule. Following Frenkie de Jong’s return, the coach now has additional midfield options, including Gavi, Fermín López and Bernal. The report also said that Dani Olmo and Rodri are currently injured.

According to the report, Barcelona have eight matches in less than a month after the final international break of 2026, including games against Manchester City, Atlético Madrid, Villarreal and Real Sociedad. The assessment of Pedri’s upcoming minutes will also depend on whether he features for Spain in the final two rounds of the UEFA Nations League.

Pedri delivered a standout performance in Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano, according to the source, which described him as a key figure in the team’s midfield.