Rodri’s rise under Hansi Flick is creating a problem for Barcelona homegrown star | OneFootball

Gavi’s place in Barcelona’s midfield has become considerably harder to secure, with Rodri’s growing influence under Hansi Flick changing the balance of the competition around him, reports SPORT.

The Spaniard had prepared specifically for the new season and was rewarded with a starting place in Barcelona’s opening league fixture at Elche. 

But an untimely blow to his right leg, involving the previously injured knee, forced him to miss the following games against Athletic Club and Rayo Vallecano.

That interruption came at an unfortunate moment, as Rodri used those matches to build his fitness and competitive rhythm, and his subsequent emergence has made Gavi’s route back into Flick’s starting XI much more complicated.

Rodri has changed the midfield equation

The issue is not simply that Rodri has taken Gavi’s place. Rather, his presence alongside Pedri has given Flick a midfield combination that leaves fewer openings for another player at the base of the game.

Gavi’s game time has reduced after Rodri’s emergence. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Rodri has already shown the extent of his influence by completing 90 minutes against Levante. His ability to cover large areas and dictate possession has made him a central figure in Flick’s tactical plans.

Gavi, meanwhile, has had to watch opportunities pass by. He remained an unused substitute against Valencia and Levante, while his only appearance against Feyenoord lasted seven minutes.

Flick still values what Gavi brings

There is little suggestion that Flick has lost faith in Gavi. If anything, the midfielder’s attitude during this difficult spell appears to be working in his favour.

Gavi has continued to train with the same intensity, remaining involved with his teammates and giving maximum effort despite his reduced role. 

That commitment has reportedly pleased Flick, who is expected to give him more minutes soon.

Rodri is Hansi Flick’s preferred choice. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

At this moment, the season is still long, and Barcelona will need different profiles across a demanding campaign. 

On that note, Gavi’s energy, aggression and versatility remain useful qualities, particularly when matches require greater intensity in midfield.

Gavi faces a fight, not a dead end

The bigger complication is that Pedri remains an established option while Marc Bernal has also emerged as Flick’s preferred interior when Pedri needs rest, leaving Gavi competing in an increasingly crowded midfield.

His immediate challenge is therefore not just about reclaiming a guaranteed starting position but more about forcing his way back into the rotation.

Rodri’s arrival has undoubtedly reduced Gavi’s margin for error, but it has not erased his importance.