Hansi Flick is planning major tactical changes ahead of Barcelona’s crucial Champions League clash with Copenhagen.
With a top-eight finish on the line after the Slavia Prague win, the manager faces his biggest selection headache yet in midfield.
Without Frenkie de Jong’s suspension and Pedri’s ongoing injury, Hansi Flick must completely reshuffle his engine room while maintaining the high-pressing identity that’s defined this season.
Dani Olmo looks set to anchor Pedri’s left interior role after his goal against Real Oviedo, with Fermín López pushing higher as the No. 10.
Replacing De Jong presents the real puzzle—Diario Sport identifies three strong contenders.
Eric García could shift from central defence back to midfield, where he’s excelled before, though Flick’s recent trust in the Pau Cubarsí-García partnership raises doubts.
Recent defensive wobbles from Gerard Martín as a makeshift centre-back make this move riskier.
Marc Casadó emerges as the logical pivot choice. The La Masia graduate impressed alongside De Jong versus Oviedo and thrived in the holding role during Flick’s early months when injuries struck.
After fading from prominence, this represents Casadó’s chance to reclaim a starting spot in Europe, offering familiarity and steel.
The wildcard is Marc Bernal, whose minutes have gradually increased post-ACL recovery.
His 15-minute Oviedo cameo hints at trust, and a Champions League start could mark his definitive breakthrough at 18.
Bernal’s physicality and passing range suit high-stakes games, aligning with Flick’s youth integration.
Each option carries risks: García weakens defence, Casadó lacks recent rhythm, and Bernal remains unproven at this level.
Flick’s solution will define Barcelona’s European hopes—top-eight security versus playoff uncertainty.
With Raphinha and Yamal primed to stretch Copenhagen, midfield control becomes non-negotiable.
Expect Olmo-Fermín as the attacking spine, but the pivot choice reveals Flick’s true priorities ahead of this pivotal night at Camp Nou.
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