Pique expected to be fit for El Clasico

Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

The defender picked up an ankle injury against Napoli

Gerard Pique gave Barcelona a scare at the end of Tuesday’s Champions League last 16 clash against Napoli at the Stadio San Paolo by picking up an ankle problem.

The centre-back looked in real pain as he hobbled off in stoppage time and was replaced by Clement Lenglet for the final couple of minutes.

Quique Setien is short on defensive options, with Jean-Clair Todibo having left in January for Schalke, and will not want to be without Pique for Sunday’s trip to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Sport reported after the match that Pique told the media he was OK and was hopeful he could play Real Madrid at the weekend, while RAC1 have also reported he should be fit in time for Sunday’s match.

Even Marca are reporting that Pique’s injury “isn’t serious” and point to the fact that Barca haven’t issued a medical statement as evidence, although they also reckon he will be monitored over the next few days.

Setien does have options if Pique doesn’t make it. Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet are the most likely partnership, although Ronald Araujo is a right-sided centre-back who could come into the team.

However, the early signs suggest Pique will be fit to play on Sunday where a win would move Barca five points clear at the top of the table.

Source: barcablaugranes.com