Dani Olmo suffered a calf injury during Spain’s training camp, and his return timeline now looms as a critical concern for Barcelona.
The 27-year-old Spaniard has notched three goals and four assists in his opening La Liga outings, forming a dynamic partnership with Pedri and Frenkie de Jong that has propelled the Blaugrana to the top of the table.
Yet, as the international break unfolds, Olmo’s pivotal role for both club and country has come under threat, raising alarms about Barcelona’s depth amid a grueling schedule.
According to Diario Sport, Olmo’s injury timeline has been confirmed, with early indications pointing to a calf puncture that rules him out of Barcelona’s crucial clash against Girona post-break.
The issue surfaced during Spain’s training camp, where fatigue and discomfort forced his withdrawal after just 15 minutes of session time.
Coach Luis de la Fuente detailed the setback in a press conference, noting Dani Olmo arrived feeling “a bit fatigued” and wasn’t comfortable enough to continue.
Now released back to Barcelona for further evaluation, his participation appears highly unlikely, potentially sidelining him for 2-4 weeks depending on scans.
This blow compounds Flick’s woes, with Gavi already out long-term and Fermin Lopez nursing doubts for the Girona fixture.
Barcelona’s midfield creativity could suffer, especially after recent inconsistencies against PSG and Sevilla.
Olmo’s absence disrupts the tactical fluidity that has defined their attack, forcing Flick to improvise.
Options include elevating Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernandez from the academy for his poise or shifting Raphinha centrally to maintain balance.
Silver linings emerge, however: Raphinha, Fermin Lopez, and Lamine Yamal are slated for potential returns, pending final fitness checks.
Flick’s cautious approach ensures no risks, preserving momentum for the title race.
Olmo’s calf issue echoes past niggles that hampered his Leipzig career, but Barcelona’s medical team is optimistic about a swift recovery.
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