Flick keeps Rodri in reserve as Barcelona prepare for Athletic Club clash

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has decided that new signing Rodri will start Thursday’s postponed La Liga fixture against Athletic Club on the bench at Camp Nou, although the midfielder is expected to play a significant role in his first appearance for the club.

Barcelona began their league campaign with a 5-0 victory over Elche on Sunday, but Rodri was not included in the squad after completing his move from Manchester City during the summer.

According to Catalan newspaper Sport, Rodri is unlikely to be named in the starting XI against Athletic Club. Flick has nevertheless confirmed that the Spain international will make his Barcelona debut in the match, with the German coach planning to introduce him alongside Pedri in midfield.

Marc Bernal is expected to retain his position as the holding midfielder after an impressive display in the opening-day win. Pedri could operate with him in a double-pivot system, as he did at the Martinez Valero following the injury suffered by Gavi, who will miss Thursday’s game.

Flick said at his news conference on Wednesday that Pedri’s involvement had helped Barcelona improve their control of matches. The midfielder from the Canary Islands is therefore expected to start this time.

Fermin Lopez is likely to complete the midfield three. He scored twice against Elche and has started the season ahead of Dani Olmo in the competition for places, with Olmo having joined the squad later.

There is less certainty in defence, particularly at left-back. Flick surprised many observers by selecting academy graduate Xavi Espart against Elche, and the youngster is considered a strong candidate to start again.

Alejandro Balde and Joao Cancelo are the other options, although both currently appear to be behind Espart in the selection order. Alejandro Balde has been the subject of transfer speculation in recent days. Despite growing confidence that he will remain at Barcelona, Flick has continued to challenge him publicly to improve his performances in training.

Eric Garcia is the leading contender at right-back. Andreas Christensen and Gerard Martin, who formed the first-choice central defensive pairing during pre-season, are also expected to continue together.

Flick also explained the situation surrounding Pau Cubarsi on Wednesday. The manager would prefer to reintroduce the defender gradually after the heavy physical demands he experienced during the previous campaign.

Two of Barcelona’s three attacking positions appear settled. Lamine Yamal is expected to operate on the right, while Raphinha should again play as a false nine.

The remaining place is likely to go to Karim Adeyemi, who impressed against Elche. Although more accustomed to playing on the right, the German was used on the left and responded by scoring an excellent goal.

Adeyemi also stood out for his defensive work, providing regular support to Espart. Flick received further encouragement from Anthony Gordon, who showed immediate readiness and made a quick impact by creating two goals.

Young Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim is also expected to wait for an opportunity from the substitutes’ bench.

Barcelona’s predicted XI is:

Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia

Defenders: Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martin, Xavi Espart

Midfielders: Marc Bernal, Pedri, Fermin Lopez

Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Karim Adeyemi, Raphinha

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