Two ways Barcelona can line up with Gavi and Dani Olmo’s imminent return

Barcelona are on the verge of a tactical transformation, thanks to the impending return of two key players: Gavi and Dani Olmo. 

Manager Hansi Flick is likely feeling a mixture of excitement and pressure as he prepares to welcome back these talents. Both players have been making strides in their recovery, and their availability will significantly enhance Barcelona’s midfield options.

Gavi is nearing the end of his rehabilitation process. Reports suggest he is feeling strong and ready to make his comeback, with the possibility of featuring in the upcoming match against Sevilla. 

Meanwhile, Dani Olmo is also set to return, but his recovery is taking a bit longer. Barcelona’s coaching staff is taking a cautious approach, ensuring that he is fully fit before he steps back onto the pitch. 

With both players on the verge of returning, Barcelona will boast a midfield brimming with talent. Alongside Gavi and Olmo, the squad includes established players like Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Pablo Torre, as well as rising stars such as Marc Casado. 

Additionally, Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen can provide depth by playing as pivots. This abundance of options creates an exciting dilemma for Flick as he considers how best to utilise these players.

A double pivot of Gavi and Pedri in 4-2-3-1

Pedri and Gavi can operate together. (Photo by GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP via Getty Images)

One potential formation that Flick might consider is a double pivot featuring Gavi and Pedri. In this setup, both players would operate in central roles, providing balance and stability to the midfield. 

Gavi’s tenacity and aggressive playing style would complement Pedri’s technical skills and vision. With Gavi and Pedri working in tandem, Barcelona would benefit from their ability to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game.

In this formation, Olmo would play as an attacking midfielder, further bolstering Barcelona’s offensive capabilities. His creativity and ability to link up with forwards would add an extra dimension to the attack. 

On the flanks, Raphinha would occupy the left wing, while Lamine Yamal would maintain his position on the right wing, providing width and pace.

This formation allows Barcelona to maintain a strong midfield presence while ensuring that the attacking players have the support they need to create goal-scoring opportunities. 

With Gavi and Pedri as the double pivot, Barcelona could become a formidable force, capable of breaking down even the toughest defences.

An experimental 4-2-3-1

Gavi can also feature alongside Frenkie de Jong. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Another intriguing option for Flick is the experimental 4-2-3-1 formation, which can offer a different tactical approach. 

In this setup, Gavi would again act as a pivot, partnered with either Frenkie de Jong or Marc Casado. This partnership would allow Gavi to excel in his defensive duties, winning back possession and distributing the ball effectively.

Pedri would be positioned as the attacking midfielder, playing a crucial role in linking the midfield and attack. His ability to find spaces and create chances would be invaluable in this formation. 

Olmo, returning from injury, would take up the role of left winger, adding creativity and flair to the side. On the right wing, Yamal would continue to provide pace and width, ensuring that Barcelona can stretch the opposition.

In this configuration, Gavi’s robust playing style and keen eye for challenges would enable him to excel in winning back possession, allowing others to focus more on attacking play. 

Depending on whether he is paired up with de Jong or Casado, the La Masia gem’s role could alternate between more defensive or attacking responsibilities, respectively.