Barcelona Faces Key Selection Dilemma vs Real Valladolid Amid Clásico Concerns
Fresh off a dramatic 3-3 draw with Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-final first leg, Barcelona turns its attention to a potentially tricky La Liga fixture against already-relegated Real Valladolid. While the matchup appears favorable on paper, it comes with hidden risks that coach Hansi Flick cannot ignore—especially with the second leg against Inter and the much-anticipated El Clásico on the horizon.
According to El Nacional, Barcelona is expected to rotate heavily, with the squad aiming to balance the need for three points against the urgency of preserving key players for the critical fixtures ahead. Among the changes, goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is set to return to action after 222 days sidelined with a knee injury—his first appearance under Flick’s management.
However, the primary source of concern lies in the potential suspensions looming over three crucial players: Raphinha, Iñigo Martínez, and Gavi. All three are one yellow card away from missing the Clásico against Real Madrid on Sunday, May 11, at Montjuïc Stadium.
Raphinha and Martínez are reportedly set to be rested, both for precautionary reasons and due to lingering fatigue. Gavi, on the other hand, could start after being left out of the Inter lineup. Known for his relentless energy and aggressive pressing, Gavi must tread carefully to avoid picking up a caution that would rule him out of one of the biggest matches of the season.
Flick is walking a tactical tightrope—needing to maintain momentum in La Liga while keeping his top talents fresh and eligible for battles that could define the club’s season.
