Hansi Flick, Barcelona boss, is going through one of his most difficult challenges when his exhausted team ready to take on Girona in a domestic LaLiga battle. Eight of the first-team members are out of service such as Robert Lewandowski, Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Gavi, which means that Flick will have to rely on a combination of youth and experience to stay in touch with Real Madrid.
German coach is optimistic and goal-oriented even in the middle of the crisis. We must find solutions, said Flick, and suggested that youngsters of La Masia might play an important part. Yamal and Fermin Lopez returned, but they are not able to play the complete 90 minutes.
On top of injuries, Flick also needed to resolve rumors of in-house strife when he was reported to have been pressured by the Sporting Director, Deco, to begin Lamine Yamal. His ungilded answer to this: It is all bullshit. Flick reiterated that he had the entire freedom to make the team selection, making it clear that he has a good working relationship with Deco.
The time could not have been worse. Barcelo is also hit after numerous defeats to PSG and Sevilla. A win over Girona would reset their campaign and restore faith ahead of El Clásico.
Flick is also gambling on the possibility of Raphinha returning to generate the attack. He said that he had a plan for El Clásico in which he would be back.
As the difference between Barca and Real Madrid is only two points, the Girona game is not only a derby but also a pressure test on how well Flick can adapt and show his abilities as a leader. Whether he will be able to awaken a reaction in an injured squad can spell out the length of time he will spend in the country of love in Catalonia.
