FC Barcelona is set to welcome back its star signing as a starter in the upcoming derby, with Dani Olmo joining Frenkie de Jong in the lineup.
Hansi Flick is gradually recovering players, providing a significant boost in a week stacked with matches, including encounters against Espanyol, Red Star Belgrade, and Real Sociedad before the international break. These three fixtures present challenges, as derbies carry their own weight, and in the Champions League, every away game is a difficult task, especially against a formidable Real Sociedad side.
Rotations appear inevitable, although the heavy changes seen in El Sadar, which led to a defeat, are likely behind us. It seems Flick is poised to make two changes, bringing in Dani Olmo and Frenkie de Jong, both now fit to play a full 90 minutes after recovering from injury.
In this context, Dani Olmo is a particularly special player. He was the marquee signing of the season but managed to play only three matches before suffering a muscle injury in Girona. Remarkably, he scored in each of those appearances.
Following his injury, Dani clocked in minutes against Bayern Munich (14′) and Real Madrid (25′), where his quality was vital in securing positive results. Olmo’s unique skill set makes him indispensable for Barcelona.
In the defensive midfield position, there is also the possibility of Frenkie de Jong taking charge alongside Marc Casadó. The inclusion of Dani Olmo may allow one of the more offensively inclined players to rest, particularly in Pedri’s case, although it isn’t out of the question for one of the attacking trio to start on the bench.
Frenkie de Jong has struggled with ankle issues and has yet to feel in prime condition for regular play. The Dutchman is a versatile player who fits well into Hansi Flick’s system, as showcased during his second half at the Santiago Bernabéu.
As for Gavi, he is not expected to start, with plans to gradually reintegrate him after nearly a year of inactivity. However, the goal is to ensure he gets minutes in the second half.
Those who will continue to miss out include Ter Stegen, Araujo, Ferran Torres, Marc Bernal, and Christensen, although the latter may make his comeback following the international break.
