Coach Hansi Flick is gearing up for a new challenge as Barcelona prepares to face Monaco in the Champions League on Thursday. Following a tough start to the season, the German coach is contemplating adjustments to the starting lineup to lighten the load on key players.
With Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez unavailable, Flick may need to alter his plans, and he’s also considering resting other players. According to Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Brazilian winger Rafinha is among those likely to be benched. Although he has been a standout performer early in the season, his physical fatigue could lead Flick to give him a break, especially with a tough match against Villarreal on Sunday. If Rafinha is rested, Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres are the top candidates to take over the wing positions.
Ferran Torres, who hasn’t had the best start to the season but has Flick’s trust, may see this as a chance to demonstrate his value and secure a regular spot in the squad. With key absences and player fatigue, Hansi Flick must strategically manage the team’s tactics.
The upcoming match against Monaco will be a significant challenge, but the German coach remains optimistic that his team can deliver positive results and kick off the Champions League on a strong note.