Barcelona center-back Gerard Pique has revealed that he plans to be back in time to face Real Madrid on April 10.
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Pique has struggled with knee injuries all season and recently made a comeback after a long layoff. He managed five more appearances before going down with another problem in the Copa del Rey semi-final and has since missed Barça’s last four matches in all competitions.
Pique has struggled with knee injuries throughout the year Soccrates Images / Getty Images
He has played in just 15 games since the start of the season, but as noted by Marca, El Clasico could end up in his 16th.
Pique returned to full training on Wednesday and he hopes to continue testing his fitness next week. An appearance against Real Valladolid on Monday has not been ruled out, although neither Pique nor the club’s medical staff are prepared to take unnecessary risks.
“I will try to be there against Real Madrid,” Pique told TV3. “I take it day by day. I try to get better as soon as possible, not just to face Real.”
Ronald Koeman is anxious to have Pique back Soccrates Images / Getty Images
With Pique injured and Ronald Araujo only recently returning from an ankle problem, Barcelona have found clean sheets difficult to get hold of – although it is not to say that they have not looked solid defensively.
Manager Ronald Koeman’s switch to a full-back has rejuvenated Barcelona in recent weeks, making impressive performances at both ends of the field. They are unbeaten in their last eight matches in all competitions, scoring 22 goals and conceding just four.
“The state of mind greatly affects the victors,” Pique said of Barça’s recent return. “Trust is necessary. Talent is basic, but hope is made by other factors.”
# BarçaValladolid coming soon …? ????? ?? ? pic.twitter.com/uLeFYUswnJ
– FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 1, 2021
Koeman will know that Barcelona must be at their best against Real, with both sides still looking for another La Liga title. The Catalan giants are currently four points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, with Real just two points behind La Blaugrana.
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