Barcelona had an opportunity to not only cut into Real Madrid's lead at the top of the table but jump over Girona for second place in LaLiga.
Regardless of the result, the Catalan side is likely to be more focused on how long they'll be without two of their starting midfielders.
In the first half of their match against Athletic Bilbao, Frenkie de Jong was forced off after landing awkwardly and visibly rolling his ankle. The Dutchman laid on the ground and despite trying to walk off the pitch under his own power, he was unable to put too much weight on that ankle. He needed to be taken off in a cart into the dressing room.
If things weren't worrisome enough for Barcelona, minutes before the end of the half, Pedri went down. He knew the injury was significant as he had his hands over his face.
The cameras caputured Pedri near tears on the bench.
Es duro ver a un jugadorazo con la calidad de Pedri así. Lesión tras lesión y recaída tras recaída. Que pena.
— Gerard Lorente (@gerlocom) March 3, 2024
Pero lo que está claro es que algo no se está haciendo bien con él. No puede estar así cada dos por tres. pic.twitter.com/VwLVVCGlML
While Barcelona await results of whatever exams the players have to undergo, early signs don't bode well for Xavi or his side.
Barcelona have to play the return leg of the round of 16 Champions League against Napoli in nine days. Given the reaction of both players, it's unlikely they'll be back in time.
Again, certain results are breaking Barcelona's way. Any positivity or possible momentum heading into what could be the most important stretch of the season is likely gone.
De Jong and Pedri have already missed a significant chunk of time this season and it appears they're set for another lengthy absence.