Three ways Hansi Flick could replace Dani Olmo in AS Monaco vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona’s highly anticipated Champions League campaign kicks off on Thursday against AS Monaco, but the team’s preparations have been marred by a series of injuries.

The latest setback comes in the form of midfielder Fermin Lopez, who has suffered a recurrence of a muscle injury, ruling him out for approximately three weeks.

Fermin’s absence adds to the growing list of injured midfielders, including Dani Olmo, who will be sidelined for four to five weeks due to a similar issue.

Marc Bernal is also out for the long term, while Gavi and Frenkie de Jong have only just begun training with the group.

All this means Hansi Flick faces a daunting task of reconfiguring his starting lineup to compensate for these losses.

What are Flick’s options to replace Olmo?

One potential solution involves deploying Raphinha in the attacking midfield role, a position he has occupied earlier in the season. This would pave the way for Ferran Torres to reclaim his spot on the left wing.

Alternatively, Eric Garcia could be utilized as a midfielder, allowing Pedri to shift forward into the attacking midfielder position.

Raphinha could play as an attacking midfielder, allowing Ferran Torres to play on the left. (Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)

However, this approach would require Marc Casado to adopt a more advanced role, as seen in the match against Girona.

A third option would see Pablo Torre, one of Flick’s preferred choices, slot directly into the attacking midfield position vacated by Olmo.

Barcelona are troubled with injuries

The injuries have significantly reduced Flick’s options, and he will need to carefully consider his lineup selection against Monaco. A positive development is the potential return of Ansu Fati, who is expected to receive medical clearance after training with the group for a week.

Barcelona injury update:

Fermin Lopez: Out for approximately three weeks with a muscle injury

Dani Olmo: Out for four to five weeks with a muscle injury

Marc Bernal: Out for the long-term

Gavi and Frenkie de Jong: Have started training with the group, but not match fit.