Hansi Flick, the head coach of Barcelona, remains vigilant ahead of tonight’s important Copa del Rey clash against Guadalajara, a team that currently holds a challenging position in the league and is considered the most vulnerable in terms of goals conceded. Despite their lower division status and desperate relegation battle, Flick understands that matches of this nature can often be deceptive, requiring absolute focus and commitment from his players.
The match, set to start at 21:00, represents a pivotal moment in Guadalajara’s history, as they prepare to give their all on home turf. Flick recognizes the danger of complacency and is aware that any lapse in concentration could potentially cost his team dearly against a motivated opponent eager to prove themselves.
Unlike previous managerial approaches that might have seen a rotation of younger or fringe players to rest key starters for cup competitions, Flick has opted for a strong squad for this encounter. The coach notably did not call up any players from the youth academy, signaling his intention to keep a tight grip on the first-team’s performance and maintain momentum. His main concern is whether star striker Robert Lewandowski will participate, as he has not fully trained with the group in recent sessions.
In light of their last league match against Osasuna, significant changes to the starting lineup are anticipated, with as many as seven players potentially rotated. This could mean resting players like Joan Garcia, Cubarsí, Balde, Eric, Pedri, Raphinha, Lamine, and Ferran. As such, those who have seen limited action recently, including Bardghji, Christensen, Casadó, Marc Bernal, Dro, and Jofre, could see an opportunity to showcase their skills from the outset.
The situation is particularly interesting for Frenkie de Jong, who has been a substitute in the last three games. Starting him against Guadalajara might send a powerful message about his importance to the squad, despite his recent struggles to secure a regular place in the lineup.
Gerard Martín, who has been a standout and in excellent form, is expected to retain his position, although it’s unclear if the tactical adjustments will allow for his continued inclusion alongside other key players. Ultimately, Flick’s decision to assemble his full-strength squad underscores his desire to avoid any overconfidence and to ensure his team is prepared for the challenge ahead. The tension and excitement surrounding this match reflect the unpredictable nature of knockout football, where determination and a fighting spirit can yield surprising results.