Flick leaves clues about Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Rodri and De Jong before facing Rayo

FC Barcelona

The FC Barcelona face a new round of the league and Hansi Flick has appeared before the media to assess the state of his squad. The German coach has left several messages to take into account when it comes to the possible starting XI, as well as for the upcoming matchdays.

Raphinha, a real option as a forward

51

Raphinha
25.590.000€+210.000€ ?

J4

19

J3

20

J2

12

J1

DL

15

One of the decisions that has drawn the most attention in recent matches has been the presence of Raphinha acting as an attacking focal point. Flick explained that one of the main reasons lies in his ability to start the press.

"As a 9, he starts the press. He is one of our leaders and he knows perfectly when it begins, and everyone follows his rhythm. In front of goal, he does it very well. It's not a problem for him".

In addition, the Blaugrana coach revealed another alternative for that position: Fermín López.

"Fermín could also play there. In the end, he was there and scored. It's a very good situation".

Rodri overcomes his physical issues

9

Rodrigo Hernández
16.480.000€-2.900.000€ ?

J4

5

J3

-

J2

4

J1

MD

00

Flick also updated the status of Rodri, who had been dealing with some niggles over the past few days. The news is positive, although the coach did not confirm his starting role against Rayo.

"Rodri had a few little problems these days. He's already fine. He trained well. Everything looks good. He will always be ready, but we'll see what we do".

Therefore, the player appears to be available to be included in the squad and compete for a place in the starting XI, although we'll have to wait for the final decision from the coaching staff.

Lamine Yamal regains his feel

31

Lamine Yamal
26.180.000€+30.000€ ?

J4

19

J3

4

J2

8

J1

DL

02

Another standout name from the press conference was Lamine Yamal. Flick acknowledged that the winger was still getting back to his best level after returning from the World Cup, but he particularly highlighted his progress during the last training sessions.

"Now he's back after three weeks at the World Cup. The first match perhaps wasn't the best, but I'm very happy with how he worked for the team. He creates opportunities".

The coach added that Lamine completed 90 minutes against Athletic and that his current feelings are much better.

"In training I saw it. His level was excellent today. We have to support him and I will".

A particularly interesting message for fantasy purposes, as everything points to Lamine continuing to rack up important minutes as he gradually returns to his best version.

Frenkie de Jong, an important piece for Flick

On Frenkie de Jong, Flick avoided getting into the possibility of a surgical intervention, but made it clear that he remains a key player in his plans.

"Frenkie is fantastic and he gives us a lot of quality. We need him to achieve our goals".

The coach also stressed that it will be necessary to manage the minutes carefully for several players after the wear and tear accumulated over the summer.

Hamza will get opportunities

Flick also spoke about Hamza Abdelkarim, one of the young players who has still not been able to enjoy many minutes during this start to the season.

The coach made it clear that he is satisfied with his progress and that he will end up getting opportunities.

"He deserves it. I see how he improves day after day. He has the right attitude and mindset. He deserves to play and he will play".

A statement that invites you to keep a close eye on the young attacker, although for now the strong competition in the Blaugrana attack limits his chances of starting.

Brian also convinces the coach

Another player highlighted by Flick was Brian, whose adaptation appears to have positively surprised the coach.

"He's surprised me a lot. He's excellent. He's in great shape and committed in his role and in different positions".

That said, Flick acknowledged that it will be difficult for him to find continuity due to the high level of competition.

"He needs minutes and it won't be easy for him. We have fantastic players there, but he deserves to play minutes".

Barça's plan with Bisiwu

Regarding Bisiwu, Flick explained that the club's plan is clearly defined: to train regularly with the first team while also adding minutes with the reserves.

"He trains with us and plays with the reserves. He has a lot of potential and it's not easy in a club as big as this. He can improve and he will".

Livakovic, a bet also looking to the future

The Blaugrana coach was also asked about Livakovic's situation. Flick pointed to the trust that exists in Tek, but explained that the Croatian goalkeeper's arrival also responds to long-term planning.

"Livakovic knows what the situation is, but we're very happy to have an experienced goalkeeper. His signing is also for the future. We're covering ourselves".

Barça keeps an eye on the market

Finally, Flick did not close the door to possible moves before the transfer window closes. The departure of Álvaro Cortés forces the club to analyze the squad again.

"We always look at what we can do until the end of the window. Álvaro has taken a step forward, but we have to analyze the situation".

The coach also explained that the young player's exit is mainly due to the need to get the maximum number of minutes at the highest level, something he currently found difficult in Barcelona.

With the market still open and several players gradually regaining their best physical condition, Flick keeps different options open across practically all lines. The situation with Rodri, Raphinha's role as a forward, and the good form shown by Lamine Yamal in training are some of the main clues for the next Blaugrana starting XI.