Flick explains decision to bench Barcelona heavyweight vs Mallorca: ‘Not at 100%’ | OneFootball

In a few minutes, FC Barcelona will take on RCD Mallorca at the Spotify Camp Nou on Matchday 23 of the 2025/26 La Liga.

Ahead of kickoff, manager Hansi Flick announced the starting lineup for the game, with some surprises.

The biggest one, perhaps, was that Frenkie de Jong was left out of the team by the Barcelona manager, despite the Dutchman’s top performances in recent weeks.

Instead, he has opted for the midfield trident of Marc Casado, Dani Olmo, and Fermin Lopez.

Speaking to the broadcasters ahead of the game, Flick explained the decision to leave De Jong out of the team, revealing that the Netherlands star was not at 100%.

“Frenkie de Jong is not at 100%, and that’s why he’s on the bench and isn’t playing today,” confirmed the Barcelona manager.

Beyond the changes, Flick expressed satisfaction with the team’s momentum and wanted to place the emphasis on consistency of play rather than urgency to improve their finishing in front of goal.

No De Jong in the Barcelona lineup. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“The important thing is to play the way we’re playing. To stay focused and go out there convinced of what we’re doing. I think the team is doing well,” he said.

Flick also highlighted the form and development of star winger Lamine Yamal in recent weeks, saying:

“Lamine is in great form. I can see it in training too, and it’s very positive for everyone. He’s doing well and it shows.”

Flick also issued a warning to his players about the danger posed by Mallorca, a side he considers well-drilled and with clear attacking reference points.

“Mallorca are doing very well. Muriqi has 15 goals, more than half of his team’s total, and he’s playing well. They’re a good team, and we have to play very well this afternoon,” he noted.

Finally, the German coach referred to the performances of Jan Virgili, one of the former Barcelona players now at RCD Mallorca.

“He’s performing very well, and when you move to another team, you have to act like that,” Flick concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo