Pedri will be Xavi Hernandez's first 'signing' as new Barcelona coach

Barcelona have deployed prudency with Pedri since them midfielder suffered a relapse of a thigh injury against Benfica at the end of September.

Pedri, 18, was rushed back in just two weeks having originally picked up the injury in the defeat to Bayern Munich earlier in the same month.

The Spain international is now close to making a comeback. If Saturday's game at Balaidos against Celta Vigo was life or desk, he could have forced it, but Barça have the Benfica precedent in mind.

Therefore, Pedri will take the international break to complete his recovery and will be in perfect conditions for the LaLiga match against Espanyol and the important Champions League game vs. Benfica.

Pedri will be like a new signing for Xavi Hernandez, whose appointment as Ronald Koeman's successor will be confirmed before the end of the week.