In a team that combines established figures and emerging talent, managing young players is one of the most delicate challenges for Barça. Hansi Flick, aware of the quality rising from the youth academy, must make decisions that will not only affect immediate performance. They will also impact the development of footballers with the potential to join the first team.
In this context, not all youth players accept a season with the reserve team in the same way, especially when they feel they've already surpassed that competitive level. The board, led by Joan Laporta and Deco, keeps a clear plan to secure the club's prospects and, at the same time, guarantee them a path for their progression. However, the demands of the current squad, with strong competition in every area, force the club to prioritize the needs of the first team.
This scenario causes some players to pay close attention to the coaching staff's final decision before committing to stay at the club this season.
Awaiting a response
One of the cases drawing the most attention in recent weeks is Dani Rodríguez's. The striker has made it clear that he doesn't intend to return to the reserve team and that his continuity depends on getting a first-team spot. The footballer believes that he is ready to compete at Camp Nou, although he knows that his minutes will be limited due to the competition in attack.
His goal, at the very least, is to take on an impact role and keep growing at the top level. Last season was supposed to be the one where he established himself, but injuries interrupted that process. In his league debut against Valladolid, a shoulder dislocation forced him to undergo surgery and miss most of the season.
Despite that, he left a good impression when he was able to play, showing that the Primera RFEF (third division) was already too small for him. Now, with his recovery almost complete, he is waiting for Flick to definitively communicate what his plans are.
Clear position from the club
At Barça, both Laporta and Deco trust Dani's potential and believe that he has significant room for improvement. For that reason, his definitive departure is not on the table. The only option the club is considering, if Flick doesn't give him a place in the first team, is a loan where he can get minutes and gain experience.
His future is also linked to other operations, such as Roony Bardghji's situation, which could affect the number of available spots. In any case, both the player and the club want to define his situation before the transfer window closes. If his expectations aren't met, Dani would be willing to accept one of the offers that have already reached his camp, but only if his return to Barça is guaranteed.