Barcelona faces a demanding schedule coming out of the international break, starting with a rescheduled La Liga clash against CA Osasuna on March 27. Just three days later, they will take on Girona in the Catalan derby before a crucial Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid on April 2. The packed fixture list has left head coach Hansi Flick frustrated, particularly with the tight turnaround and the late-night kickoffs affecting player recovery.
With key players like Ronald Araujo and Raphinha returning late from South American international duty, Flick has opted to rotate heavily for the Osasuna match. The Brazilian winger and the Uruguayan defender will not feature on Thursday, with the German coach citing their long flights and the need for recovery. "They will not play; they are not in the team, and they have a long flight, and it's not the best way because they have to recover," Flick confirmed in his pre-match press conference.
Despite missing two crucial players, Flick remains confident in his squad’s depth and ability to secure all three points. "Always no excuses; we go for it," he stated. "We can win against everyone, even if some players are not in the team." The absence of Araujo and Raphinha means players such as Eric Garcia, Fermin Lopez, and Ferran Torres are expected to start.
Barcelona's defensive setup will see Eric Garcia partnering with Inigo Martinez at centre-back, while Pau Cubarsi, who suffered an ankle injury while with the Spain national team, will sit on the bench. Flick explained his decision to ease the young defender back into action. "Pau will sit on the bench. It's better for him to rest for a few more days because he needs it. The injury isn't serious, but it's good for him to have a few more days. If we need him, we will give him playing time."
Midfield stars Pedri and Jules Kounde, who played extra-time matches for Spain and France, respectively, in the Nations League, are also in need of rest. Flick acknowledged that the players returning from international duty had limited time to recover but praised their professionalism. "Today they had their first full session. This is how it is, and it's not the best situation for them, but they're professionals," he said.
In attack, Robert Lewandowski is still uncertain to start after playing for Poland in the match against Malta on Tuesday. However, Flick provided an encouraging update, stating, "He is ready to play, and we will decide tomorrow if he will play. He feels in good condition, and it is a good situation for us." The coach also highlighted Ferran Torres’ strong form, indicating that the Spanish player could play an important role.
Barcelona had initially appealed against the decision to play the Osasuna match this week after its original postponement on March 8 due to the death of a club doctor. However, their appeal was unsuccessful.
Flick expressed his dissatisfaction with the congested schedule, particularly with another tough league match against Leganes scheduled for April 12 just three days before their Champions League quarter-final second leg against Borussia Dortmund.
"When playing away, always at nine, we arrive late back in the night; it's to do with recovery for the players," he said. "I am not happy with this. When you see other leagues with Champions League teams, it's different to here."
Despite the challenges, Barcelona remains focused on their goals, with Flick determined to manage his squad carefully. With key fixtures coming up, his tactical rotations will be crucial in keeping the team fresh for their pursuit of silverware.
Post a Comment