As the Copa del Rey reaches its decisive stages, preparation has been anything but smooth at the Ciutat Esportiva.
Absences, fatigue and timing have collided at the worst possible moment, testing both depth and adaptability.
Yet within that uncertainty, there is a familiar theme beginning to take shape once again.
When options thin out, Barcelona instinctively look home.
Hansi Flick has once again underlined his trust in youth by calling up several academy players to first-team training ahead of the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Tuesday’s session was far from routine, with Flick forced to manage multiple absentees across the squad.
Raphinha continued to work away from the main group while he recovers from his injury setback, while Pedri, Gavi and Andreas Christensen were all unavailable due to injury setbacks of their own.
With numbers stretched and intensity still required, Flick turned to La Masia to ensure the session retained its competitive edge.
Regular training inclusions Diego Kochen, Tommy Marques, Jofre Torrents and Juan Hernandez were once again drafted in, continuing a pattern that has become increasingly common under the German coach.
These youngsters have grown familiar with senior sessions this season, quietly gaining experience alongside established first-team figures.
The standout call-up, however, was 20-year-old midfielder Brian Farinas, whose presence marked a significant moment in his development.
Brian Farinas has been a key performer for the reserve side this campaign, delivering consistent displays and establishing himself as one of the most reliable figures in the squad.
His invitation to train with the first team is widely viewed as recognition of both form and professionalism rather than a short-term necessity.
While no decision has yet been made on whether he will feature in the matchday squad against Atletico, the step itself represents meaningful progress.
Barcelona later released images from the session, showing Farinas involved on the winning side of a training drill.
He worked closely with first-team regulars such as Joao Cancelo, Ronald Araujo, Gerard Martin, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal.
The sight reinforced a message Flick has quietly pushed since his arrival: opportunity is earned, not gifted, regardless of age.
Barcelona will hold their final training session on Wednesday, where Flick is expected to finalise his plans for the semi-final showdown.
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