Ernesto Valverde asks for a Barça signing after what he saw in the first half of the Super Cup

The match that is being played right now between Barça and Athletic Club, corresponding to the Spanish Super Cup, is offering exactly what was expected of it. The pre-match buildup already suggested a spectacle with a high tempo, offensive ambition, and very demanding individual duels. For now, the clash isn't disappointing anyone.

Barça arrive with sky-high morale after winning the last Catalan classic, a result that has strengthened their collective confidence. Hansi Flick's team is persistently looking for Unai Simón's goal, with quick ball circulation and a strong presence in the opposition half. The approach is clearly offensive: in 45 minutes the scoreboard already shows a resounding 4-0.

Meanwhile, Athletic Club face the occasion with the declared intention of causing an upset. Ernesto Valverde has drawn up a bold game plan, based on high pressing and the speed of his strikers. However, the Lions' plan isn't working out as expected.

Ernesto Valverde needs a signing

The red-and-white coach has fielded a starting eleven with full guarantees, although it is conditioned by the physical situation of his great star. Nico Williams has arrived in fragile condition and Ernesto Valverde, cautious, has preferred to keep him in reserve from the start in order to avoid greater risks. The decision has forced a restructuring of the attacking line.

In his place, Iñaki has appeared, and he has taken on responsibility from the first minute. On the other flank, Berenguer has occupied the wing, providing imbalance, defensive work, and presence in the box. Both have completed a discreet first half, without becoming a real threat to the Barça defense.

In fact, their characteristics make an obvious diagnosis clear for the coach after the first half. Ernesto Valverde would be delighted to strengthen the wings with an additional profile that provides dribbling, close control, and the final pass. The competitive demands on Athletic require an expansion of resources in that position.

Ernesto Valverde asks for a signing from Barça

With that context in mind, we can state that Ernesto Valverde is closely monitoring a Barça player. He is Dani Rodríguez, one of the most promising gems of the Barça reserve team and a footballer who has been followed for months by several LaLiga clubs.

Dani Rodríguez is a left winger with enormous potential, very direct and with a notable ability to beat opponents in one-on-one situations. He stands out for his change of pace, his ball control in tight spaces, and a maturity that is unusual for his 20 years. In addition, he has precise shooting that allows him to be decisive both by providing assists and by finishing moves.

Athletic already showed strong interest in signing him last summer. However, Dani Rodríguez decided to renew with FC Barcelona, lured by promises of a leading role made by Hansi Flick and by the idea of establishing himself in the first team. Those expectations, for now, haven't been fulfilled.

The lack of minutes, together with the high level of competition on Barça's wings, could end up pushing the footballer to reconsider his future. A change of scenery toward San Mamés isn't an outlandish hypothesis if the current situation keeps. What is clear is that Dani Rodríguez is on Ernesto Valverde's agenda.