Hansi Flick has turned to three emerging talents from FC Barcelona’s youth ranks, bolstering the squad for the critical Girona derby.
The absence of key attackers, compounded by the international break’s “FIFA virus,” has depleted options ahead of El Clasico.
Hansi Flick, renowned for integrating youth at Bayern Munich, is turning to La Masia to plug gaps, calling up three promising talents to train with the first team, potentially handing them a chance to shine in a high-stakes Catalan showdown.
The trio consists of Pedro Fernandez Dro, Toni Fernandez, and Xavi Espart. Dro, a creative midfielder, could start if Hansi Flick opts against deploying Pedri in an advanced role, filling the void left by Dani Olmo’s calf injury, as reported by Diario Sport.
Toni Fernandez, a versatile winger, addresses the shortage out wide with Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres sidelined.
Espart, a right-back, likely bolsters numbers, as Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia cover the position.
Their presence follows standout performances for Barça Atletic, with Dro’s flair earning him buzz as a potential breakout star.
Flick’s reliance on youth, seen with Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí, reflects Barcelona’s DNA, especially with Olmo, Lewandowski, and Torres out for weeks.
Dro’s inclusion is particularly tantalizing, as his vision and passing could unlock Girona’s organized defense.
Toni Fernandez offers pace to stretch play, while Espart’s defensive nous provides depth. The trio’s training at Ciutat Esportiva signals Flick’s trust, with Dro facing a career-defining week if selected.
As Barcelona navigates a packed schedule, including Olympiacos and Real Madrid, La Masia’s role is critical.
Flick’s bold move echoes Xavi’s promotion of Yamal, balancing risk with reward.
The Girona clash tests Barcelona’s depth, but these prodigies could seize the moment, cementing their names in a squad chasing titles.
With Camp Nou’s return looming, their emergence underscores Barcelona’s youth-driven resilience.
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