Barcelona may have reached the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in six years, but their 3-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund has raised fresh concerns within the squad and complicated selection choices ahead of a pivotal stretch of the season.
Although they advanced with a 5-3 aggregate win, head coach Hansi Flick faced discontent in the dressing room post-match. Senior players like Jules Kounde, Frenkie de Jong, and Robert Lewandowski openly questioned the team’s display, prompting Flick to remind them of the significance of their qualification.
A positive development for Barça was the return of Dani Olmo, who made a late appearance after recovering from injury. With the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid fast approaching, Flick is reportedly planning to carefully manage Olmo’s playing time in the upcoming La Liga matches against Celta Vigo and Mallorca to gradually build his match fitness
Dani Olmo’s role in the upcoming Copa del Rey final remains uncertain. According to Sport, Hansi Flick is currently favoring Fermin Lopez to start in Seville, with Olmo likely to be used as an impact substitute—much like his role in the earlier Clasico at the Santiago Bernabéu this season.
Lopez has seen consistent minutes in recent weeks, stepping up in the absence of Gavi. Though he hasn’t been prolific in front of goal, his overall performances have earned Flick’s confidence.
Notably, Lopez started in the last Clasico at Madrid alongside Marc Casado. In that match, Frenkie de Jong replaced Lopez in the second half and played a key role in Barcelona’s commanding 4-0 win.
As the Copa final approaches, Flick’s decision in midfield could be a defining factor in Barça’s chase for a trophy.
