Barcelona coach Xavi admits he didn't want to take risks with Pedri after ruling him out of Sunday's clash with Real Madrid.

Pedri was then not even seen on the pitch in Saturday's session.

"It was very tight," Xavi explained of Pedri's schedule to return for the game. "We knew there was a risk. Yesterday he didn't feel 100% and, if he's not in good condition, the best thing he can do is recover well.

"We spoke to him and told him that he didn't need to force himself. It's an important match that can be decisive, but it's not a big final.

"We don't want to lose Pedri for two more months."