A key Barcelona midfielder, integral to Hansi Flick’s title push, faces scrutiny as a fresh injury sparks tensions with the club.
With a demanding schedule looming—featuring clashes against Girona, Olympiacos, and Real Madrid—the Blaugrana are bracing for potential disruptions.
The club’s frustration is palpable, directed not only at external decisions but also at the player involved, as tensions rise over accountability in a season where every match counts.
According to AS, Barcelona are livid with Spain after Dani Olmo returned from national team duty with a calf injury—a soleus muscle tear likely sidelining him for three to four weeks.
The 27-year-old, who has shone with three goals and four assists, may miss up to five games, including El Clasico on October 26.
The club’s anger stems from Spain’s handling of Olmo, who arrived at camp with a medical report flagging fatigue and discomfort.
While Real Madrid’s Dean Huijsen was released for similar concerns, Spain’s Luis de la Fuente kept Olmo, only for him to break down after brief training.
Barcelona’s ire also targets Olmo himself, with some questioning why he trained despite evident risks.
His ambition to cement a 2026 World Cup spot may have driven the decision, mirroring Lamine Yamal’s recent injury woes on international duty.
The club has urged Spain to manage Pedri’s workload carefully to avoid further setbacks, highlighting a recurring club-versus-country conflict.
Flick now faces a tactical challenge, with Gavi sidelined and Fermin Lopez’s fitness uncertain.
Options like academy star Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernandez or a repositioned Raphinha could fill the gap, but Olmo’s creativity is a significant loss.
As medical tests await, Barcelona’s frustration underscores the delicate balance of player management. Olmo’s swift recovery is crucial to restoring his pivotal role alongside Pedri and Frenkie de Jong.
For now, the Camp Nou spotlight is on resilience, with Flick tasked to navigate this setback while keeping Barcelona’s title hopes alive.
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