As Barcelona put together to face Girona this Sunday, Hansi Flick finds himself ready the place he should rigorously handle his squad.
Earlier than the match, Flick overtly admitted that he was considering giving relaxation to a few gamers.
This consideration doesn’t embrace the enforced absence of Dani Olmo, who has been dominated out on account of an damage picked up throughout Barcelona’s current conflict towards Osasuna.
Nonetheless, there’s some optimistic information for Barcelona on the provision entrance. Raphinha, who was absent towards Osasuna on account of worldwide responsibility, is again and able to play.
Moreover, Pau Cubarsi, who not too long ago sustained a minor ankle damage whereas enjoying for Spain through the worldwide break, is now match and accessible for choice.
Moreover, Ronald Araujo, who solely made it to the bench towards Osasuna, is an alternative choice Flick would possibly contemplate for this significant La Liga encounter.
Defence
Pau Cubarsi is prone to return. (Picture by Fran Santiago/Getty Pictures)
Wojciech Szczesny has cemented himself as Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper beneath Hansi Flick, and his place within the beginning line-up seems to be unchallenged.
In defence, important adjustments may very well be on the playing cards. With Cubarsi and Araujo now accessible for choice, Flick would possibly choose to rotate his centre-back pairing.
Inigo Martinez and Eric Garcia have been deployed towards Osasuna, however Flick might select to exchange them with Cubarsi and Araujo for the Girona sport. This alteration might convey extra solidity and composure to the defence.
On the suitable aspect of the defence, Jules Kounde is anticipated to proceed his spectacular run of appearances. The Frenchman has been a relentless presence for each membership and nation since November 2023, making him an indispensable a part of Flick’s plans.
Alejandro Balde is anticipated to retain his spot because the left-back. His capability to contribute each offensively and defensively has made him an essential asset for Flick’s tactical strategy.
Midfield
Eric Garcia would possibly function within the midfield. (Picture by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Pictures)
The midfield is the place Flick faces probably the most urgent considerations, notably with the absence of Dani Olmo. His damage might current a possibility for Fermin Lopez to step up and stake a declare for a beginning place.
Gavi, who not too long ago made his return from damage, is probably not risked from the beginning. Flick may very well be trying to handle Gavi’s minutes rigorously, reserving him for the upcoming Copa del Rey fixture.
This resolution might see the pivot function occupied by Eric Garcia, which might possible lead to Frenkie de Jong being rested and beginning on the bench.
Pedri, nonetheless, stays a certainty within the beginning XI. The 22-year-old midfielder has grown to grow to be a central determine beneath Flick’s administration this season.
His composure on the ball, creativity, and talent to dictate the tempo of matches are qualities Barcelona will depend on closely towards Girona.
Assault
Raphinha is anticipated to return as properly. (Picture by David Ramos/Getty Pictures)
Barcelona’s attacking line-up can be anticipated to endure adjustments, with Raphinha making his return after lacking the Osasuna sport on account of worldwide commitments.
Flick is prone to place him again on the left wing, the place his dribbling expertise and tempo may cause issues for Girona’s defence.
Robert Lewandowski, who was solely used as an alternative towards Osasuna, might discover himself on the bench as soon as once more.
Flick’s feedback relating to Lamine Yamal within the press room hinted at his intention to depend on the teenager’s consistency.
His capability to handle himself successfully throughout matches permits him to keep up excessive efficiency ranges with out displaying indicators of fatigue.
Flick’s squad administration might be carefully scrutinised as Barcelona intention to bounce again from their current struggles.
Whereas accidents have restricted his choices, the return of key gamers like Raphinha, Cubarsi, and Araujo offers the supervisor with precious assets to make the required tactical changes.