Three options for one position leaves Flick with a serious headache ahead of Barcelona vs Atletico | OneFootball

As Barcelona prepare for a high-stakes UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Atletico Madrid, Hansi Flick finds himself juggling more than just midfield concerns.

While injuries have already complicated his plans in the middle of the park, there is another equally important decision looming – who leads the line.

In the recent La Liga encounter against Atletico, Flick surprised many by deploying Dani Olmo as a false nine. 

It was a tactical move, one that prioritised fluidity over a traditional focal point. 

Olmo drifted between lines, linked play intelligently, and helped Barcelona create numerical superiority in attacking areas.

However, the Champions League often demands a different approach, and that brings the focus firmly back onto Robert Lewandowski.

Time to unleash Lewandowski

The veteran forward remains Barcelona’s most reliable reference point in Europe. 

He has been Flick’s preferred option in the competition, starting seven out of 10 matches and featuring in the last six consecutive games, during which he has scored four goals. 

Furthermore, Lewandowski comes into this fixture after scoring the decisive goal against Atletico in the league.

Dani Olmo started against Atletico last weekend. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Ferran Torres, another attacking option, has struggled to maintain his early-season rhythm. 

Once seen as Barcelona’s most dangerous attacking outlet, his form has dipped noticeably. 

He has not found the net since January 31 and has managed just three goals in 2026 so far.

In Europe, Ferran has been used in multiple roles, starting three matches and contributing two goals. 

While his overall tally of 16 goals this season may appear respectable, it does not fully reflect his recent struggles in front of goal.

This leaves Flick with three distinct options, with each offering something different.

Lewandowski brings experience, positioning, and clinical finishing. Ferran offers movement and work rate, even if confidence is currently lacking. 

Olmo, on the other hand, provides tactical flexibility and unpredictability, allowing Barcelona to approach the game unconventionally.