Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has strategically programmed his rotations ahead of the packed schedule, from the recent fixture against Osasuna to the next game against Girona—only 64 hours after.
With an important Copa del Rey semifinal against Atlético Madrid on April 2, Flick is being cautious regarding fitness and is taking no risks, according to Diario Sport.
Robert Lewandowski, back from a minor problem with Poland, began from the bench, with Ferran Torres impressing as the striker.
Young Pau Cubarsí, who was injured while playing for Spain on international duty, was also left out. The intention is to get him, Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Araújo ready for Girona and the Copa game.
This provides room for rotation for the likes of Iñigo Martínez, Eric García, and even Lamine Yamal. Dani Olmo’s injury forces a midfield overhaul.
Gavi or Fermín López could replace him, with Raphinha protecting Lamine’s wing if required. Osasuna watched Olmo start as a false left winger, allowing Alex Balde to drop in from full-back.
Flick is also able to substitute full-backs, resting Jules Koundé for Héctor Fort or Gerard Martín as a cameo option. Midfielder Pablo Torre, who starred in the latter half of the Osasuna match, can also enter.
With clever rotations, Flick wants Barcelona to remain competitive within La Liga and the Copa del Rey. The match against Girona will challenge their depth before the season-decider Atlético fixture.
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