Hansi Flick faces an immediate tactical puzzle following Barcelona’s 2-1 El Clasico defeat to Real Madrid, with the German manager admitting his side lacked the necessary freshness to compete. SPORT reports that Flick is preparing two specific midfield solutions to restore intensity before the international break, with a demanding schedule featuring Alaves, Aston Villa, and Atletico Madrid looming. The core issue remains the lack of physical support around Rodri, whose influence in possession is currently diluted by the team’s collective drop in energy levels.
Bernal and Gavi offer the physical edge needed to support Rodri against Alaves and Villa.
The primary candidates to solve this problem are Marc Bernal and Gavi, both of whom have seen limited action recently. Bernal has been absent from the starting lineup in Barcelona’s last two league matches against Real Betis and Real Madrid, while Gavi managed just 11 minutes against Betis before being left on the bench for the Clasico. Their recent exclusion highlights a squad depth issue, but it also presents Flick with a clear opportunity to inject the high-pressing intensity that has defined Barcelona’s recent successes.
Utilizing Bernal and Gavi alongside Rodri could provide the physical backbone required to counteract the fatigue Flick identified. By rotating these players in, Flick can ensure that Barcelona maintains its pressing structure without overloading their core midfielders. This strategic adjustment is crucial as Barcelona prepares to face Alaves next, a match where maintaining high intensity will be vital to securing a victory and regaining momentum before the mid-season break.
Source: Yahoo Sports
