With key stars missing, coach opts for aggressive midfield lineup in must-win game against Copenhagen to salvage automatic knockout spot.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is rolling the dice with his most offensive lineup yet, as his team faces a win-or-bust Champions League showdown against FC Copenhagen on Wednesday night.
Sitting ninth in the competition’s league phase, Barça must secure victory to have any realistic hope of finishing in the top eight and avoiding a tricky playoff round next month. With playmaker Pedri injured and captain Frenkie de Jong suspended, Flick’s midfield selection has been the subject of intense speculation.
In a bold move, the German coach looks set to field an attack-minded trio of Dani Olmo and Fermín López ahead of pivot Eric García—who steps up from central defence—in a clear push for goals. Gerard Martín will partner teenage talent Pau Cubarsí in defense as a result.
“We’re very confident and I hope we can win to qualify,” said Flick ahead of the match. “We’re only focusing on ourselves and on what is in our hands … We should never make excuses. That’s our philosophy.”
Up front, Robert Lewandowski will lead the line, flanked by wingers Raphinha and Lamine Yamal—both scorers in Sunday’s 3-0 league win. Ferran Torres remains unavailable from the start due to fitness concerns.
With goal difference likely to prove decisive in the final standings, Flick’s high-risk selection reflects the urgency of the moment. Anything less than three points could mean a longer, tougher route to stay in Europe’s premier competition.
Similar Posts:
- Flick Vows “Different Barcelona” After Chelsea Humbling
- Flick Confirms Pedri Suffers Hamstring Injury
- Flick Sticks with Szczesny for UCL and El Clásico Despite Ter Stegen’s Strong Return
- Flick Baffled by Red Card: “I Didn’t Do Anything Against Anyone”
- Lewandowski’s Double Leads Barcelona to Comeback Victory Over Valencia in Flick’s Debut
