E-Noticies, @FCBarcelona_es Official, he'll start against Guadalajara: golden opportunity to win over Hansi Flick
The Copa del Rey can be a great stage for less regular players to show their quality
Copa del Rey returns to the stage tomorrow for FC Barcelona, a competition that always sparks special interest in the culé environment. After overcoming Osasuna this past weekend, Hansi Flick's team has already switched gears to focus on a tournament that has historically been favorable. The fans know that Copa del Rey has often served as a turning point for young talents, and in the Catalan locker room there are several who need more minutes.
The opponent in this first round will be Guadalajara, a Primera Federación team going through a difficult season. The Alcarreños are in seventeenth place in their league, but they approach the match with the excitement of facing one of the giants of European soccer. Pedro Escartín Stadium will be packed to witness a night that could be etched in the memory of the local club.
Hansi Flick plans rotations for tomorrow's match
For Barça, the match comes at an ideal time to introduce rotations. The schedule is starting to get tight and Hansi Flick is aware that he needs to manage efforts. Copa del Rey offers a perfect context to try alternatives without compromising the season's major objectives.
The German coach is planning a starting eleven with significant changes compared to LaLiga. Some regulars will rest and other less-used footballers will have the chance to prove themselves. Hansi Flick wants to see competitive responses even against an opponent that is clearly inferior on paper.
In this scenario, one name stands out and generates special anticipation: Marc Bernal. The young midfielder will start against Guadalajara, according to club sources. This decision is neither casual nor improvised, but rather carefully planned.
Marc Bernal returns to the stage
Marc Bernal has had medical clearance for three months, but his presence in the team has been very limited. To date, he has only accumulated 120 minutes spread over eight official matches. These numbers make him the least-used player by Hansi Flick so far this season.
From the outside, this situation has caused doubts and some nervousness in the footballer's environment. However, inside the club the message is very different. The trust in Marc Bernal is absolute and he is considered a strategic piece of the medium- and long-term project.
The reason for so much caution is clear. Marc Bernal is coming off a serious injury and any relapse could have significant consequences in a career that promises to be brilliant. Hansi Flick, in coordination with the medical staff, has chosen a conservative plan, prioritizing the player's health over competitive urgency.
The match against Guadalajara therefore presents itself as a perfect opportunity. Copa del Rey will allow Marc Bernal to accumulate minutes without extreme demands. In addition, he will be able to take on responsibility, touch the ball, and regain his rhythm in a favorable context.
For Hansi Flick, this match is also a tactical test. He wants to see how Marc Bernal responds as a pivot in a full match, with responsibility from the start. His ability to organize the team, offer passing lanes, and keep the tempo will be closely observed.
Copa del Rey could mark a turning point for the young midfielder. A solid performance would reinforce the roadmap set by Flick. It would also serve to send a clear message: Barça takes care of its talents, but when the time comes, they open the big door for them.
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