Hansi Flick Faces Selection Dilemma for Valencia Match
Hansi Flick finally has a “problem” he can live with.
For the first time this season, the Barcelona coach must leave out a fit player by choice rather than necessity, as his side travel to Valencia with 24 players available and room for only 23 on the official La Liga list.
Gavi and Gabriel Jesus change the picture
According to SPORT, the returns of Gavi and Gabriel Jesus to full training have tipped the numbers over the limit. Both have rejoined group sessions, both are considered ready to be involved, and both are expected to be in Flick’s plans.
That’s where the dilemma begins.
Barcelona, so often stretched by injuries in recent campaigns, suddenly have depth. Real depth. Training sessions have ramped up in intensity, competition has sharpened, and Flick now has options across the pitch.
La Liga’s regulations, though, are unforgiving. Only 23 players can be registered for the matchday squad. One will have to watch from the stands.
Balde and Farinas on the bubble
SPORT report that Alejandro Balde and Brian Farinas are among those most at risk of missing out for this trip to Mestalla.
Balde’s case carries extra weight. On the opening matchday against Elche, Flick left him out for what he described as a purely technical decision, questioning the full-back’s focus at that time. The coach spoke openly about it in his press conference, making it clear the omission was deliberate and performance-based.
This time the scenario is different. Balde has since been included in the next two La Liga squads, though he has yet to play a single minute in the competition. His absence now, if it comes, would be framed not as a disciplinary or mental issue, but as collateral damage from a crowded dressing room.
Farinas, meanwhile, sits in the same equation. With the squad close to full strength, the young midfielder finds himself on the edge of the list, dependent on Flick’s final assessment of balance and roles across the team.
A real test of hierarchy
The decision will offer an early glimpse into Flick’s internal hierarchy. Does he back Balde as a long-term piece and keep him close to the action, even if he doesn’t play? Does he reward Farinas for his work in training? Or does he sacrifice a different profile entirely to maintain cover in certain positions?
For once at Barcelona, the headache is not about who is missing, but who is expendable.
Flick has asked for competition. Now he must decide who pays the price for it when the squad sheet for Valencia is finally handed in.
