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SOCCER

Ferran Torres's latest move changes Chelsea's plans, the decision is final

Barça has a lot at stake against Chelsea, and Ferran Torres will be one of the main protagonists

Barça faces Chelsea tonight in a crucial match for both teams' future in the Champions League. The Catalans are in eleventh place with 7 points, exactly the same as the English team. The winner will take a huge step toward being among the top eight teams in Europe and advancing directly to the next round.

Hansi Flick has spent days analyzing Chelsea and fine-tuning key decisions ahead of the match. Among all of them, the one that directly affects Ferran Torres stands out, whose involvement has become decisive in recent weeks. The German coach believes the winger is in such good form that he can't ignore it.

Barcelona player celebrating a goal on the field with arms outstretched and fans in the background
Ferran Torres has become indispensable for Hansi Flick's plans | Europa Press

Ferran Torres changes everything hours before Chelsea-Barça

Barça's number "7" has shown, in Robert Lewandowski's absence, that he can be a starter with full reliability. His numbers, movement, and aggression off the ball have convinced Hansi Flick in recent weeks. That's why the coach is considering starting Ferran Torres against Chelsea, but with an important twist.

Everything suggests Lewandowski will start tonight alongside Lamine Yamal, which leaves only one spot in the attack. Many pointed to Raphinha as the favorite to fill it due to his profile and experience. Others even speculated about Marcus Rashford as a tactical surprise to attack Chelsea.

Against all odds, Hansi Flick seems ready to keep his trust in Ferran Torres and start him from the beginning. That choice forces Chelsea to adjust several phases of their defensive approach. With Ferran on the field, Barça could switch to playing with two strikers, a setup that might catch the English team off guard.

The unexpected move: Ferran Torres will start against Chelsea

If Ferran plays alongside Lewandowski, Barça's formation could change more than expected. The Valencian enables a more dynamic attack, capable of shifting structure according to the needs of the game plan. This introduces an element of uncertainty that complicates Chelsea's tactical preparation.

Ferran Torres's presence boosts Barça's directness and ability to break through. His reading of space and constant movement add an extra dimension to the left wing, but also to the inside play. All of this could create doubts in the English defense from the very first minute.

Chelsea will have to decide whether to adjust individual marking or change their defensive retreat to stop Barça. The appearance of Ferran Torres as a starter transforms an attack that seemed set for a natural winger like Rashford or Raphinha. That's why Hansi Flick's decision is definitive and could shape both teams' European journey.

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