Barcelona assess attacking options as Dani Olmo targets Villarreal return

Dani Olmo is making positive progress in his recovery and could return for Barcelona’s meeting with Villarreal on 22 November, although the club will wait for further medical checks before deciding whether he is ready to play.

Barcelona’s priority during the current international break is to prepare their injured players for a safe return without risking setbacks. The club wants the squad to be fully fit when domestic action resumes, with Olmo’s physical condition over the coming days determining whether he receives medical clearance.

Olmo has missed Barcelona’s past four matches after suffering an adductor injury during the 27th minute of their game against Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes. His absence included the clasico against Real Madrid, as well as matches with Alaves, Aston Villa in the Champions League and Atletico Madrid.

The latest players to return were Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen, who came on during the second half at the Metropolitano. Their involvement means Barcelona’s defensive options have recovered fully, with Jules Kounde the only remaining player yet to rejoin the group.

Barcelona are determined not to rush players through the final stages of rehabilitation. In Olmo’s case, that caution is possible because Hansi Flick has several attacking alternatives, despite the manager’s clear desire to have the Spain international available again.

Olmo remains particularly valuable in tightly contested matches. His ability to make the right decisions in possession can help Barcelona break down compact defensive structures, making him an important option when opponents limit space.

Fermin Lopez has filled the attacking midfield role in recent games and has produced a series of outstanding performances. His form has created healthy competition with Olmo, something Lopez highlighted himself earlier this week.

“It is a very good competition; he is an excellent player and, in the end, we both try to make the most of the opportunities we have and do what is best for us,” Lopez said. “We have a very good relationship off the pitch; it is healthy competition. In the end, we are team-mates and have a good relationship, even when one of us is not playing. It pushes us to improve day by day, and I think that is important.”

Flick also has tactical flexibility because several of Barcelona’s attacking players can operate in more than one position. Adeyemi, primarily a left winger, can also play on the right or as a centre-forward. Gordon can feature as a number nine, an attacking midfielder or on either flank, while Raphinha offers similar versatility.

One possible solution would see Lopez, Olmo and Raphinha play together, rotating between the wings, the number 10 position behind the striker and a false-nine role. That approach would mean using no recognised traditional winger, but Barcelona would retain their attacking threat and creativity in the final third.