[Trending News] FC Barcelona’s Valencia Matchday Squad Has Two Surprises

FC Barcelona’s matchday squad to face Valencia in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals on Thursday contained two surprises when it was published approaching midday in Catalonia.

Dani Olmo was ruled out of action with a right calf strain confirmed by the club after a 1-1 draw at Getafe on January 18.

He hasn’t been seen on the pitch since, but will be available in the Mestalla with a place in the cup last four on the line.

Olmo isn’t expected to start in attacking midfield despite Gavi being rested as a consequence of the concussion he picked up last time out.

Fermin Lopez is expected to partner Pedri in front of Frenkie de Jong instead, but Flick said at his prematch press conference that Olmo “is an option for the second second half”.

“As far as Gavi is concerned, the protocol says that it is not an option for him to play tomorrow. We will take care of him. Today he trained and it’s good that he trains, but the blow was very hard, also for the opponent. It’s a serious injury and I wish him the best,” Flick further explained.

Gavi could possibly be available for a vital league clash against Sevilla, also away, on Sunday. Yet if Olmo picks up minutes at Valencia, he could be another option to partner Pedri or be placed in front of him as Pedri partners Marc Casado or De Jong in a double pivot.

As we’ve seen on a regular basis in 2024/2025, Olmo’s inclusion means that Ansu Fati is cut and doesn’t make the squad.

At the turn of the year, Fati missed four squad lists on the trot as Flick publicly questioned his lack of dedication.

“I’m honest with everyone, I’ve spoken to him,” Flick said last month. “It’s whatever he wants. I told him when I arrived that he is ready to be professional and show a great performance.

“He was injured, but after the injury he didn’t show us his one hundred percent. And it’s a shame for him and for us, he did not give it his all. He has to work like everyone else and give his best, that’s what we want,” Flick then added.

With Olmo around, he can provide an alternative on Fati’s left wing as can Ferran Torres making the Lamine Yamal of his era surplus to requirements.