Why Pedri, De Jong & Ferran Torres were taken off early in Barcelona 1-1 Real Betis | OneFootball

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has provided an insight into the reasoning behind his decision to haul off several leading members of his squad prematurely against Real Betis.

Barcelona were of course back in action on Saturday night.

After seeing Real Madrid slip to a shock defeat at the hands of Valencia earlier in the day, the Blaugrana welcomed Real Betis to Catalunya’s capital, aware that a victory would see them move six points clear atop the table.

When all was said and done, however, Hansi Flick and co. were forced to settle for a share of the spoils.

This came after Gavi’s early opener was cancelled out decisively by Natan.

En route to as much, as alluded to above, several of Barca’s most important players were hooked from proceedings early, with the withdrawal of Pedri having come as a particular surprse.

Speaking to the media post-match, the subject of his substitutions was in turn quickly put to Hansi Flick.

And Barcelona’s headmaster went on to explain:

“Our subs were decided in advance. We thought it was important for Pedri, Frenkie and Ferran to rest.”

Conor Laird – GSFN