The Catalan team reclaimed the top spot in the league, tied on points with rivals Real Madrid, but a superior goal difference ensured that Hansi Flick’s side remained in first place.
Barcelona secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano at Montjuïc, allowing Flick’s squad to lead La Liga. However, not everyone in the dressing room was entirely satisfied, as a key player expressed frustration over his role in the team.
According to the Spanish outlet El Nacional, Dani Olmo once again started on the bench, a recurring pattern in recent matches. Despite being one of the club’s major summer signings, Olmo has not received the expected playing time, leaving him visibly frustrated. After the match, he did not hide his disappointment and made it clear that he wants a more significant role.
Coming on in the 60th minute, Olmo made an immediate impact, showcasing his creativity, dribbling, and vision—qualities that highlight why Barcelona worked hard to bring him back. However, despite his strong performances, he remains frustrated with his limited minutes. While Flick is cautious due to Olmo’s injury history, the player believes consistent game time is necessary to regain peak form.
Flick now faces a tactical dilemma, as Olmo’s situation directly affects Gavi, another key player and fan favorite. So far, Flick has preferred a midfield trio of Gavi, Pedri, and Frenkie de Jong, leaving Olmo as an option off the bench. Granting Olmo a starting role would mean sidelining Gavi, a move that could create tension within the squad.
After the match, Olmo refrained from making bold statements, but his body language reflected his frustration. He feels ready to start, but Flick remains cautious to prevent injuries. The coach has consistently emphasized that no player has a guaranteed spot in the lineup, though Olmo’s push for more minutes could soon force a change in the team’s setup.
