Barcelona midfielder Pedri is on track to make his return to competitive action when the Catalan giants face Chelsea later this month.
According to journalist Xavi Campos, the 22-year-old will not be risked against Athletic Club, as the club prioritises having him available for their trip to Stamford Bridge on November 25.
Midfielder nearing comeback after hamstring injury
Pedri has been sidelined since he suffered a hamstring injury during last month’s El Clásico defeat to Real Madrid.
The setback forced him to miss Barcelona’s last three games in all competitions, along with Spain’s international fixtures.
Early assessments suggested the midfielder could be out for up to six weeks, but his recovery has progressed quicker than expected.
A return before the end of November would represent a notable acceleration in his rehabilitation timeline.
Barcelona view his reintroduction as a key reinforcement ahead of a crucial phase of the season.