Barcelona will be aiming to maintain their lead at the top of the league table as they take on Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano this evening.
It has been a rough few weeks for the Catalans, who have suffered a few damning defeats while the injury crisis has worked, with Rodri becoming the latest player to pick up a knock.
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However, it is not all bad news for Hansi Flick heading into this game, as he has been boosted by the return of both Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen.
According to Diario SPORT, Flick faces a selection dilemma in two key areas, as Barcelona prepare to face Atleti at the Metropolitano this evening.
Eric Garcia can start vs Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
The report suggests that Garcia has recovered from his injury well before expected and is one of the starting candidates for Barcelona against Atletico Madrid.
Garcia could be a handy asset to have for Barça, especially with both Xavi Espart and Jules Kounde not available for this game due to injury.
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The former Man City star, therefore, can operate in the right-back position and offer some defensive solidity which Barcelona have lacked lately.
Alternatively, Flick could choose not to risk the defender’s fitness and continue with Brian Farinas, who has done well in the past couple of matches.
De Jong could appear as a Rodri replacement. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Rodri is out for the time being with a fresh injury, which raises the question: Who will be his replacement against Atletico Madrid this evening.
Flick has to choose between either Frenkie de Jong or Marc Bernal. De Jong seems like the obvious pick given that the Dutchman is finally back to full fitness.
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However, de Jong hasn’t had too much action this season and could be lacking that bit of edge against an Atleti side, who can overwhelm the Barcelona midfield with their physicality and aggression.
Therefore, it will be interesting to see who Flick picks as the desired replacement for Rodri in the centre of the park this evening.
