Gavi is becoming a real problem for Hansi Flick at Barcelona, he wants to play more and get a starting place
Gavi’s return after a long injury has not gone as planned. The young Barcelona midfielder has shifted from being a regular starter to a more secondary role in Hansi Flick’s plans, which doesn’t align with his aspirations. Known for his competitive spirit and desire to be a key player, Gavi has started to put pressure on the coach, creating tensions within the squad.
According to Spanish newspaper El Nacional, the rise of Marc Casado, who has excelled in a defensive pivot role, and Pedri’s exceptional performances, competing with the best midfielders globally, have made it harder for Gavi to reclaim his place in the starting lineup. Furthermore, Dani Olmo’s role as an attacking midfielder has added depth to the team, making Gavi’s inclusion more challenging without upsetting the team’s balance.
Flick is fully aware of the situation and understands that keeping a player like Gavi on the bench could cause long-term issues. The coach faces a tough decision: either adjust the midfield to give Gavi more minutes or stick with Casado, which might cause more unrest with Gavi.
So far, Casado has been a crucial part of the midfield, providing defensive stability and the ability to win back possession—qualities that Flick values highly. However, Gavi has made it clear that he won’t settle for a secondary role, insisting he’s ready to return to the starting lineup.
Flick knows that managing a squad full of talent and ambition is no easy feat. The balance between players is at risk, and benching Casado could significantly impact the team’s tactical setup. Flick may opt for a rotation system, with Gavi, Pedri, and Casado all playing regularly during busy match periods.
This situation represents not just a tactical challenge but also a test of Flick’s managerial skills. He will need to find a way to balance the team without sidelining a key player like Gavi. The upcoming matches could be crucial in resolving this dilemma.