As Barcelona prepare for their high-stakes clash against Borussia Dortmund, Hansi Flick finds himself facing one of the season’s biggest headaches: who should occupy the third midfield spot?
The injury to Dani Olmo has left a void that still hasn’t been firmly filled. Olmo’s intelligence in tight spaces and ability to operate between the lines would’ve been tailor-made for a team like Dortmund, knowing fully well the Germans might adopt a deep defensive line.
But with the Spaniard still unavailable, Flick must choose between two options: Gavi and Fermin Lopez.
Gavi favourite, but Fermin also an option
According to Diario SPORT, Gavi appears to be the favourite as Flick looks to fill the void in the third midfield position.
The 20-year-old returned to the starting XI against Real Betis and delivered his best performance of the season. He played as an attacking midfielder but was also constantly dropping deeper, even swapping positions with Pedri at times.
His pressing intensity was key in Barça completing 78% of their pressures in the opponent’s half. But there are always question marks over his fitness.
That is why Flick has another option to choose from in the form of Fermin Lopez. The Spaniard has quietly racked up more minutes than Gavi this season and is a strong contender due to his ability to make a quick impact.
He started at the Metropolitano and came off the bench against Betis, playing in his preferred attacking midfield role. The coaching staff appreciates his late runs and eye for goal.
Flick has also experimented with Ferran Torres and Raphinha in advanced midfield roles this season, but both are likely to be used further forward against Dortmund. Raphinha is expected to start on the wing alongside Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal.
Therefore, for now, Gavi remains the favourite to operate in the number ten role.
