Hansi Flick is facing his first real test in managing an abundance of talent in Barcelona’s midfield. With Gavi back in training and Rodri gradually regaining full fitness alongside Pedri and Marc Bernal, the competition for the two holding midfield spots has become wide open, featuring four players with distinct abilities and similar ambitions.
Gavi's Return and Rodri's Recovery
According to Spanish outlet Sport, Gavi became available for selection after returning to training on Thursday. Meanwhile, Rodri has been building up his match fitness and featured in recent games. This leaves Flick with a wealth of options ahead of Sunday’s clash against Valencia at Mestalla, as well as Barcelona’s Champions League opener against Feyenoord next week.
Early Season Patterns
Marc Bernal is the only player to have started all three of Barcelona’s opening league matches this season, though he did not complete any of them. Pedri started alongside him in the last two games before being replaced by Rodri in the second half. Gavi, who began the season as a starter against Elche before suffering an injury, has now rejoined full training and is ready to play, although Spanish reports suggest he is unlikely to be named in the starting XI against Valencia.
The Preferred Partnership: Rodri and Pedri
Despite Bernal’s impressive form and Gavi’s return, Flick’s primary plan appears to center on pairing Rodri and Pedri in the double pivot. The duo offers superior ball control and the ability to dictate the tempo of a match. Flick has previously praised Rodri’s qualities since his arrival at Barcelona, noting that his presence adds experience and control to the team. Bernal, however, remains a valuable option in the same position.
Rodri’s importance lies particularly in his capacity to provide defensive balance, allowing Pedri more freedom to roam forward and orchestrate attacks. This combination, in Flick’s view, can give Barcelona greater dominance in games.
The Case for Bernal and Gavi
Yet, Bernal’s early-season performances have made it difficult to leave him out. Gavi, on the other hand, offers versatility across multiple positions, which could earn him valuable minutes throughout the campaign.
Flick's First Major Headache
Flick is now preparing to make his first difficult decision in this area. He is not limited to just these four players—he also has alternatives like Eric García and Dani Olmo, making Barcelona’s midfield one of the most crowded and talented units in Europe this season.
