5 days ago
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FC Barcelona will lock horns with local rivals RCD Espanyol in a few minutes in their first match of 2026.
With kickoff close, manager Hansi Flick has already announced the starting XI for the match, with some surprise decisions being made.
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One such call saw Pedri being left out of the lineup by the Barcelona head coach despite the midfielder recovering from his discomfort and training normally this week.
Dani Olmo, too, has been left out among the substitutes despite returning from his shoulder dislocation issue.
Speaking to the broadcasters ahead of the game, Flick explained the decision to leave out Pedri and Olmo, saying:
“Olmo needs time; there were options for him to come in, the same with Pedri. They’ll be on the bench and might get some playing time, but there are many matches in the coming weeks, in the next month; it’s a long road until the end of the season.”
Both Pedri and Olmo are benched. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
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“Perhaps it’s too soon for them to play 90 minutes,” he added.
Speaking about the level shown by the team so far and what awaits them in Cornella, Flick commented:
“We have many players from our youth academy who know exactly how we have to play and what we have to do in this match. It’s difficult; we already know it’s a tough game.”
Continuing, he added: “The attitude and mentality must be 100%, and we also need to maintain good positioning on the field.”
Regarding Joan Garcia, who received a hostile reception on his return to Espanyol, Flick stated:
“It’s a match like any other, but of course it’s special for him. There’s a good coach there, and he gave him confidence. Now I’m happy he’s with us.”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
English (US) ·