Barcelona have a bigger test lying in wait though as they prepare to take on Girona in a rescheduled clash. The match, originally scheduled for March 8, was rescheduled after the untimely death of a Barcelona medical supervisor. The context for that fixture has now changed, with uncertainties looming over player availability and recovery times. The Barca boss Flick is both hopeful and fearful as his side approach this decisive match.
Flick speaking to reporters Flick underlined the fact that the full recovery time for several players is still unknown.
“You never know that [recovery time], even when you have one or two days more to recover. It will undoubtedly be a great challenge that awaits us from now until the end of the season,” – Flick
Despite these challenges, Flick emphasized Barcelona’s readiness to fight until the season’s end.
“We’re ready and want to fight until the end of the season. I have a feeling that we’re all very proud of the match against Osasuna.” – Flick
FIFA Regulations and Player Challenges
FIFA regulations have made things even more complicated for Barcelona’s preparations. Candidates cannot report to their clubs within five days of their final national team match. This is a hard and very fast rule. This regulation might affect FC Barcelona’s starting eleven, as they prepare their strategy for the 7th matchday against Girona.
Both FC Barcelona and CF Girona had lodged appeals against having to play the match this week and had them set aside. At the same time, Real Madrid has pulled even on points with Barcelona at the top of La Liga. Barcelona, at least, still enjoy a seemingly healthy-looking 18-goal cushion over their closest rivals.
Player Injuries and Suspensions
Barcelona will have to make do with suspensions and injuries in their squad. The only player suspended is Donny van de Beek, while Abel Ruiz, Jhon Solis, and Ivan Martin are all injured. Football Espana Inigo Martinez has withdrawn from international duty with Spain due to knee pain. He returned to play the full 90 minutes in Barcelona’s 3-0 triumph against Osasuna last weekend. For that match, Flick called upon the 31-year-old, testament to his uplifting spirit and willingness to fight for whatever could be left of his national team’s chances.
Lewandowski’s Impact and Focus
Robert Lewandowski, who is currently topping the La Liga scoring charts with 23 goals as of this writing, is still a crucial actor for Barcelona’s plans. He started the match on the bench against Osasuna. Once he entered as a sub, he wasted no time making his presence felt with an immediate goal.
Lewandowski’s focus on teamwork underscores Barcelona’s collective determination as they navigate through challenges on their path to maintaining their lead in La Liga.
“Lewandowski is focused on the success of the team, not just winning the Pichichi,” – Flick
“Of course, he wants to score goals, he wants to play, but he also sees what the team needs.” – Flick
“This makes me really proud, about the behaviour of Lewy, and it was a really great situation, a great moment and everything went the right way against Osasuna, so it’s something I really appreciate.” – Flick
Lewandowski’s focus on teamwork underscores Barcelona’s collective determination as they navigate through challenges on their path to maintaining their lead in La Liga.
