Barça's draw against Rayo Vallecano has left more doubts than certainties at the start of the league. Flick's team suffered again, unable to control the pace of the match during several phases of the game. Among the players singled out, there is a name that worries its own teammates.
According to reports, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong didn't hide their frustration after the Spanish international's performance. Both believe that his contribution in Vallecas was very poor and didn't meet what the team needed. They conveyed that discomfort directly to the coaching staff.
A disappointing match
The match ended 1-1, leaving Barça without a perfect record in the first three rounds. Defensive errors combined with a lack of finishing in attack, which allowed Rayo to compete on equal terms. Only Joan García's brilliant performance prevented an even bigger setback.
In that context, he had the chance to become a hero. He had Barça's clearest chance at his feet, but inexplicably wasted it. That play symbolized the low level he showed throughout the entire second half.
Far from stepping up, he appeared disconnected from the game, without creating danger or linking up with purpose. That didn't go unnoticed in the locker room. For Pedri and De Jong, his performance was clearly insufficient.
Growing doubts about his signing
His arrival was one of the board's biggest bets. Joan Laporta and Deco presented him as a key piece to strengthen the midfield. However, in these first matches, he hasn't managed to convince either the coaching staff or part of the locker room.
Pedri and De Jong believe that his integration is proving much more complicated than expected. They point out that he slows down ball circulation and hasn't adapted to Flick's routines. Even in key moments, his presence seems to subtract more than add.
In the Barça environment, people are already starting to say that selling him to Manchester City would have been a reasonable option. The English club showed interest in the past, and some believe Barça missed the chance to secure a major transfer.
Flick's concern
The German coach, who backed his signing in the summer, is starting to have serious doubts about his role in the team. Flick expected him to provide quality between the lines and the ability to get into the box. But so far, the balance is very disappointing.
Patience in the locker room is also running out. Pedri and De Jong believe Barça needs players who can offer immediate guarantees. For now, Olmo isn't providing them. That feeling of playing with one less footballer is a major concern within the group.
The player once again at the center of internal criticism is Dani Olmo. His weak match in Vallecas, together with the glaring miss that could have changed the result, put him in the spotlight.
Barça trusted that he would be a leader in midfield, but his adaptation is far from the desired one. If he doesn't step up soon, the critical voices already being heard in the locker room could become even louder.