Flick's doubts about the signing of Rodri

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23/08/26 21:30:00

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Rodri, a 30-year-old midfielder, faces his move to Barcelona with several questions that Hansi Flick will need to address before the start of LaLiga. The recent back injury that led the Spanish international to undergo surgery, his pairing with Pedri, and the new scenario for Marc Bernal are the focal points of discussion following the midfielder's signing. 

Although Barcelona sees Rodri as a strategic addition to dominate the midfield, the German coach is aware that the team's performance will depend on how the new pieces fit in. The Spanish international arrives after winning the World Cup with Spain but also after a surgical procedure at the end of July to address back discomfort. 

Rodri's injury conditions his start of the season

Flick's primary concern is regarding Rodri's physical condition. The midfielder underwent back surgery after the 2026 World Cup, a procedure scheduled weeks before to address discomfort he had been experiencing during the tournament.

Although the surgery was deemed minor, the recovery process will prevent the player from being available at the beginning of the season. The coaching staff aims to avoid any setbacks and will prioritize a gradual reintegration before making him a regular in the starting eleven.

This situation forces Barcelona to reorganize the midfield during the initial matches, with alternatives like Gavi or Marc Bernal while Rodri completes his fitness regimen.

Pedri and Rodri, a partnership that still needs to work

Another issue that Flick must address is the footballing relationship between Pedri and Rodri. Both players shared minutes with the Spanish national team during the World Cup, but their connection did not offer the expected fluidity in certain matches. 

The German coach believes that the quality of both players is complementary, although he will need to find a distribution of roles that enhances Pedri's game without limiting Rodri's influence in the midfield play.

The experience of the Manchester City international and the ability of the Canary Islander to play between the lines give grounds for optimism, but the balance in the midfield will be one of the initial tactical challenges of the season.

Marc Bernal, greatly affected by Rodri's arrival

Rodri's arrival also alters Marc Bernal's situation. The homegrown player had gained prominence after overcoming a severe knee injury suffered the previous season and gradually returned to the first-team dynamics over the past season. 

With the presence of the Spanish international, Bernal now has fewer chances to occupy the defensive midfield position. Nonetheless, the club believes that his development should not halt as he can play in other midfield roles and will continue to receive playing time throughout a season with multiple competitions. 

Flick's immediate priority will be managing Rodri's recovery and deciding when he can make his debut for Barcelona. Once the injury is overcome, the coach will need to address the integration with Pedri and define the role of Marc Bernal, three decisions that will shape the balance of Barcelona's midfield at the beginning of the season.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Las dudas de Flick con el fichaje de Rodri