Pedri explains substitution request in Barcelona's Champions League victory
Pedri said he asked to come off in the second half of Barcelona's Champions League win over Galatasaray because he felt unwell with stomach discomfort, not because of an injury. The midfielder praised the team's response after a difficult first half, as Barcelona recovered from a deficit to win 4-1. He also highlighted important upcoming matches against Real Betis, PSG, and Real Madrid.
Pedri told Movistar that stomach pain and feeling off prompted his second-half withdrawal, stressing it was not an injury. The Barcelona midfielder had impressed in Istanbul during the Champions League league-phase match against Galatasaray.
After Galatasaray led, Barcelona struggled before halftime in a difficult stadium environment. Pedri said the team discussed avoiding haste at the break, then produced a strong second-half display to win 4-1. He noted Lamine, Fermín and Dani Olmo can generate chances near the penalty area, and called upcoming fixtures with Real Betis, PSG and Real Madrid important.
This update may reassure Barcelona supporters that Pedri’s withdrawal was not a serious injury, though his availability for key fixtures could remain uncertain. If he recovers quickly, the club’s performances against Real Betis, PSG and Real Madrid may be less disrupted; if not, fans and teammates could feel added anxiety. The story mainly affects sports audiences, not broader society.