Ousmane Dembélé could miss El Clásico later this month, report AS. The French winger will miss Sunday’s game against Athletic Club and his recovery is being managed under maximum caution.
“Right now the priority is Pedri’s recovery,” say those at the club, who have not ruled out the possibility of the France international’s return being delayed for another two weeks, until after the international break.
The injury suffered by Dembélé requires a longer period of time, especially given his history of injuries. The winger picked up a thigh injury on 28 January in Girona. After tests, the club doctors were pessimistic, with an estimated prognosis of five to seven weeks.
The plan is still with a view for Dembélé to recover in time for the Clásico on 19 March, but the rehabilitation will not be forced or accelerated. Everything will depend on how the player feels next week when he could return to training.
The report adds that Pedri will start the Clásico on 19 March. The Canary Islander could even play a few minutes this Sunday at San Mamés. According to AS, he will return to the squad on Saturday and will be tested. Depending on the feedback, he could be part of the squad that travels to Bilbao. Robert Lewandowski is sure to be in the squad, having fully recovered from the hamstring strain that has prevented him from playing in the last two games.
Kieran Quaile | GSFN
