Official Barça announcement, KO for Athletic Club: Hansi Flick needs a solution

Happiness is at its highest in FC Barcelona's camp after what happened next weekend in LaLiga. Real Madrid couldn't get past a draw in Vallecas, while the Catalans took three golden points from Balaídos. With this result, Hansi Flick's team is now just three points away from the top spot, a perfectly manageable distance considering that it's still November.

Barça delivered a solid performance against Celta de Vigo, passing the test despite the absences of Pedri and Raphinha. They did so thanks to Frenkie de Jong's control and composure in midfield, and Robert Lewandowski's opportunism, who once again made the difference in attack. However,the joy of victory has been overshadowed by news that will significantly affect Hansi Flick's plans for the next league match.

Frenkie de Jong will miss Barça-Athletic

FC Barcelona officially announced on Monday a one-match suspension for Frenkie de Jong, who was sent off in the final moments of the match against Celta de Vigo. The Dutchman received a second yellow card in added time and, therefore, won't be able to play against Athletic Club. His absence is a major blow for the team, which is already weakened in midfield.

The clash against the Basque team is especially symbolic, as it could be the official debut of the new Camp Nou after months of construction. The club and the fans wanted to do so with all the starters on the field, but Hansi Flick will have to improvise a reliable line-up. Frenkie de Jong will watch from the stands next to Pedri, who likely still won't be fully recovered.

Hansi Flick points to Frenkie de Jong's replacement

Frenkie's absence leaves a gap that's hard to fill in midfield. Hansi Flick is aware that his absence will be deeply felt, since no other player in the squad offers the same qualities. That's why the German will have to reinvent the system to keep the balance between control and verticality.

According to sources close to the coaching staff, the idea is to go with Marc Bernal as a starter against Athletic. The young midfielder is fully recovered and ready to make his first start of the season. His vision, passing ability, and aggression off the ball have convinced Flick, who sees him as a real option for the immediate future.

Eric García could play alongside him, since in addition to Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, Casadó is also a serious doubt. It seems that Marc Bernal's day has arrived. Still, whatever the final choice, the German coach knows that the key will be to keep the balance without giving up the possession-based style that defines Barça.