Barcelona's league debut left good impressions and a solid victory against Mallorca by 3-0. The blaugranas showed reliability in every line, confirming that Flick is starting to shape a competitive team. However, the match also revealed an important dilemma in the Barça midfield.
The win doesn't erase the doubts hovering over the distribution of roles in the center of the field. With several young talents competing for minutes, Flick knows he can't give prominence to everyone at the same time. The most repeated question after the match at Son Moix is who will be the definitive choice.
Barça starts with a win | @FCBarcelona
A debate with two main protagonists
In the league opener, one of the academy players once again showed that he's ready to take another step forward. His performance confirmed what had already been seen during the preseason, with an overwhelming personality in every action. The German coach especially values his arrival in the box and his ability to turn chances into important goals.
On the other side of the scale is the Sevillian, a symbol of Barça and a reference for the club's immediate future. After a long recovery, he still needs minutes to regain the spark that made him indispensable in previous seasons. His intensity in pressing and competitive character are virtues Flick doesn't want to lose sight of.
The comparison between the two has become a recurring topic in the locker room and in the Barça environment. Both occupy similar positions and offer complementary attributes, which creates a dilemma that's as tactical as it is emotional. Flick, pragmatic, knows that the choice will shape the dynamic in the upcoming league matches.
Fermín López | @_ferminlopez
A victory that clarifies some ideas
The emphatic win against Mallorca helps Flick make decisions with greater calm and perspective. The team replied in a demanding context and showed that the project has room to grow with several young pieces. However, the battle in the midfield remains open and will need a quick resolution to keep harmony.
The goals at Son Moix showed the importance of having midfielders who can get into the opponent's box. One of them, in fact, was a protagonist for his constant offensive involvement and for the freshness he brought to every attack. Flick, aware of this, believes that this ability to break the balance can make the difference in tight matches.
Meanwhile, the Sevillian barely had minutes and was still lacking competitive rhythm. The demands of La Liga require more continuity to recover the form that characterized him before his injury. The coaching staff trust that this process will be completed soon, although they assume that the present demands immediate decisions.
Gavi has come back unstoppable | @pablogavi
A choice with weight in the locker room
The sporting management also follows this contest with interest, knowing that it's not just a tactical issue. Managing meritocracy in a locker room with so many young stars is a constant challenge for Flick. Keeping the balance between performance, hierarchy, and future projection is a challenge that could shape the season.
Inside the locker room, teammates recognize the value of both and accept that competition is part of growth. However, everyone is aware that only one will be able to start in most important matches. The German coach will have to communicate his decision clearly to avoid internal tensions in such a demanding season.
On social media, the debate among Barça fans has also intensified after the first league matchday. Many highlight the freshness and ability to get forward of the player who excelled in Palma de Mallorca. Others, however, argue that the experience and defensive sacrifice of the Sevillian remain essential for the team.
Fermín celebrating a goal | @FCBarcelona
After the 3-0 win against Mallorca, Flick seems to lean toward the footballer who's accumulated the most merit. His immediate performance and offensive impact put him in pole position to secure the starting spot in midfield. Every match has reinforced the feeling that he's ready to take on a leading role in the squad.
Everything points to Fermín López being the one chosen to start, after earning the coach's trust. His energy, ability to get forward, and competitive character make the difference in a team in need of surprises from the second line. However, Gavi isn't far behind and Flick trusts that sooner or later he'll return to his best level.
