Hansi Flick prioritizes game time for Barca's star midfield trio against Espanyol
- FC Barcelona are scheduled to take on Espanyol at the Montjuic next.
- Hansi Flick prioritizes game time for the star midfield trio against Espanyol.
Coming on the back of dominating wins against tough opponents like Bayern and Real Madrid, FC Barcelona prepares to face Espanyol next. Given the kind of run they have enjoyed in La Liga so far, having won 10 out of 11 matchdays, the Blaugrana club with the home advantage enters the fixture as the favorites. However, Hansi Flick's Barcelona side would certainly need to continue at their top level, preparing for the games ahead.
Hansi Flick prioritizes game time for Barca's star midfield trio against Espanyol
FC Barcelona's last two games against two of the best European clubs saw them utilize their full potential squad; however, Flick might want to rest his key players for the upcoming matchday against Espanyol. Considering the form the opposition has been, being just above the relegation zone, implementing a rotation lineup shouldn't be riskier for Barca. Thus, there are many changes to be expected for the upcoming home game against Espanyol.
As per Diario SPORT's reports, Hansi Flick plans on giving Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi more playing time against Espanyol. So far since the trio's injury return, although de Jong has gotten considerable game minutes, Dani Olmo and Gavi's game time has been rather limited. While certainly, Barca's ongoing setup has been doing brilliantly, Flick would want to have his star trio, being game-relevant going further.
Out of the three ace stars, Dani Olmo could most probably be the starting name on Barca's playing XI, unlike the other two. Although Fermin Lopez had a brilliant game against Bayern Munich, the prodigy star didn't look to be at his best while starting against Real Madrid. Moreover, Olmo's arrival gave Barca's attack force the much-needed stability going forward, strengthening his chances for the Espanyol game.
However, while Olmo's reentry into the XI looks quite comfortable, it certainly won't be easy for de Jong and Gavi to guarantee themselves in the starting XI. Especially for Gavi, who has been known for his aggressive playstyle on the pitch, Flick might resort to utilizing him in the end minutes. Moreover, being aware of the player's recent return, Gavi might be restricted to around 20–25 minutes of play, as per Diario SPORT reports.
Next. La Liga rivals show interest in signing Barca's ace pivot in January. La Liga rivals show interest in signing Barca's ace pivot in January. dark
Overall, although Flick would certainly want to maximize the playing time for de Jong, Olmo, and Gavi, it remains to be seen who makes it to the starting XI. However, Barca fans would hope that whoever starts gives it their 100% on the field, playing a crucial role in Barca securing yet another La Liga win in the upcoming matchday.
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