Barca star asks Flick to start against Dortmund
FC Barcelona already has all the spotlight on this Wednesday’s duel against Borussia Dortmund , corresponding to the first leg of the quarter-finals of the Champions League . A key match for the club’s European future and a golden opportunity for the players to take a step forward in the most decisive stage of the season. And if there is anyone who wants to be in this starting eleven, it is Gavi .
The Andalusian midfielder was one of the protagonists of the league tie against Real Betis. He returned to the starting eleven after a period of ups and downs and made it clear that he is recovering his best version . Not only for the goal he scored, but also for his physical display, his intensity in the pressure and his ability to connect with the men above. Gavi showed that back-and-forth football that has made him one of the most loved players by the Barça fans.
Hansi Flick himself hinted at it in a press conference: he is delighted with Gavi’s commitment and attitude. The German coach, who has rotated his midfielders intelligently, greatly values ​​the dedication of the young Spanish international, who at 20 years old already has notable experience on the big stage .
Flick’s big doubt for the midfield is who will accompany the regulars Pedri and De Jong . The options are mainly reduced to FermÃn López , who has taken advantage of his opportunities well this season, and Gavi himself , who after his performance against Betis seems to have won integers.
The message from the footballer’s environment is clear: Gavi wants to play everything , but above all he wants to be present in the great European showcase that is the Champions League. And it is not just a matter of ambition. The midfielder is convinced that he can be key to stopping Dortmund , a team that demands a lot on a physical level and that knows how to move quickly if given space.
Competition with FermÃn
FermÃn López’s growth this season has been one of the positive surprises for Barça. The Andalusian has shown that he has the finishing touch, the goal and a tireless energy in the pressure. However, for matches of this caliber, Gavi’s experience and temperance could weigh more in Flick’s decision.
The German coach has not yet revealed his starting eleven, but he is expected to make a final decision after the last training sessions before the trip to Germany. In principle, the 4-3-3 system that Barça has been using will be maintained, and that is where Gavi wants to prevail in the fight for the last ticket in the starting midfield.
Gavi has had a somewhat irregular season marked by physical discomfort and some rotations. But when he has been at his best, his level has been more than remarkable. His return to his best form could be one of the factors that changes the face of the team in the final stretch of the season.
With Dani Olmo still in the recovery process and Frenkie de Jong coming off an injury, having Gavi at 100% is a luxury for Flick. And the player doesn’t want to miss the opportunity.
On Wednesday, Barça will look to strike first against Dortmund. And Gavi wants to be in the starting eleven, wants to be a protagonist and, above all, wants to show that he is ready to be the heart of Barça on the biggest nights in Europe.
Source: El Nacional
