Barcelona’s forgotten No. 4 continues to work hard and wait for his chance under Flick | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Brian Farinas has found himself in an unusual position at the club this season.

Earlier this season, the midfielder was registered with the first team, received the No. 4 shirt and remained involved around the senior squad.

However, he is still waiting for his first competitive appearance under Hansi Flick.

According to MARCA, though, Farinas is continuing to work while waiting for the opportunity to show what he can offer, as he is currently the only available first-team player who has not featured during the 2026-27 campaign.

Barcelona’s midfield competition has left Farinas waiting

Farinas was promoted to the first-team registration in September, but the move has not immediately translated into minutes.

Flick has been willing to rotate his squad during the opening weeks of the campaign, and players who started the season with more limited roles have already been given opportunities.

Brian Farinas is waiting for his opportunity under Hansi Flick. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Farinas, though, remains the exception.

The midfielder was included in the squad for each of Barcelona’s opening three La Liga matches but did not leave the bench. 

Unfortunately, after the meeting with Rayo Vallecano, he was no longer selected for subsequent league games.

His next squad involvement came in Europe, when Barcelona faced Feyenoord in their Champions League opener, but once again, Farinas watched the match from the substitutes’ bench.

Farinas must wait for his opening

For what it is worth, the lack of minutes is less about Flick ignoring Farinas and more about the number of established options available in midfield.

Farinas is working hard to earn his place. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s depth has allowed the manager to alter his combinations without needing to turn to every player in the squad. 

That competition has made it particularly difficult for Farinas to force his way into the matchday plans.

His first-team registration nevertheless represents an important step in his development, and the No. 4 shirt places him within Barcelona’s senior setup, even if his competitive debut remains outstanding.

For now, Farinas’ task is to continue training at the highest level, stay ready, and wait for the opening Flick eventually gives him.

With a long season ahead and Barcelona competing across multiple competitions, that opportunity could still arrive sooner than expected.