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Barcelona’s midfield dilemma is shaping up to be one of the most interesting challenges for Hansi Flick in the coming weeks.
As several key players, including Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong, Fermin Lopez, and Gavi, return to full fitness following the international break, the competition for a place in the starting lineup is expected to intensify.
Olmo, who is likely to return against Sevilla, is also set to make his return and will likely reclaim his spot in the first team once fully fit, journalist Adrian Sanchez has informed Barça Universal.
The upcoming battles for Barcelona’s midfield positions will be fascinating to watch. Currently, Marc Casado, a former youth team player, has been doing more than enough to justify his inclusion in the squad.
His performances have been impressive, and he has made a strong case for staying in the first team. However, the return of Barcelona’s seasoned veterans, such as de Jong and Gavi, will complicate matters for Casado and the rest of the midfield.
With only two spots likely available in the middle of the park, competition will be fierce.
A headache for Flick
Dani Olmo will retain his spot upon his return. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Flick faces a unique situation with these returning players, particularly since he has not seen much of de Jong, Gavi, or Fermin Lopez in action due to their injuries.
This means every player will need to prove their worth on the training ground and during matches before Flick can make a final decision on who gets regular playing time.
It also provides Flick with a clean slate to evaluate his squad fairly and impartially. Players won’t be able to rely on past performances or reputations alone; they must demonstrate their quality once again.
Olmo’s return is especially significant because of his leadership role within the team. He has proven to be a pivotal figure for Barcelona since joining, and his ability to control the midfield will be invaluable.
Once he is back at full strength, Olmo is expected to resume his position as one of the key figures in Flick’s system.
Someone will be affected
Marc Casado has made a case for himself. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Interestingly, the influx of returning players will inevitably result in someone seeing a reduction in playing time. Casado, despite his impressive displays, could be the one most at risk.
With de Jong, Gavi, and Pedri all vying for a spot in the starting XI, it is hard to see how Casado will consistently find minutes against the seasoned veterans.
This is one of the many tough decisions Flick will have to make, balancing the development of younger talents like Casado with the proven quality of Barcelona’s established stars.
Pedri’s situation adds another layer of complexity to the midfield puzzle. Normally considered a mainstay in Barcelona’s lineup, Pedri will face increased competition for his spot once everyone is fully fit.
His form has been solid, but like every other player, he will need to continuously prove that he deserves his place.
Rotation could be key
Hansi Flick will have to rotate a lot. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
It must be noted that Flick’s system may offer some flexibility, as he could rotate his squad depending on the competition or the importance of the match. This would allow him to keep his key players fresh while giving younger talents a chance to shine.
It will also be intriguing to see how Flick manages his midfield in relation to other positions.
Barcelona are set to experience a similar situation with their goalkeeping department, where competition for the starting role led to players having to prove their abilities before securing their place.
Flick could adopt a similar approach with the midfield, rotating based on form, fitness, and the significance of each game.
His decision-making will be put to the test and it will push players to perform at their best, knowing that their spot in the team is never guaranteed.
Whether through rotation or tactical adjustments, Flick has a wealth of options at his disposal.
In any case, Barcelona’s midfield is set for an intriguing shake-up. With Olmo’s return and the ongoing competition for places, there’s no doubt that we will see some surprises along the way.
