Marc Bernal was in the starting XI again for Barcelona on Saturday against Athletic Club in La Liga but departed after just 45 minutes of the match.
Hansi Flick opted to send on Pedri in his place at half-time, with the scores level at 0-0 after the first half in the Basque Country.
According to ESPN, the change was not solely a tactical substitution but because Bernal was suffering from stomach problems during the game.
Flick was quizzed on Bernal afterwards in his post-match press conference and said:
“We had to sub out Marc Bernal due to a precaution. He had some discomfort.”
Barcelona will be hoping that Bernal is passed fit to play against Newcastle in midweek in the Champions League last 16 tie.
The Catalans are scheduled to spend the night in Bilbao and then fly out to Newcastle in the morning, in a bid to reduce travel time and maximise rest for the players amid a hectic schedule.
