Dani Olmo finished his first campaign as an FC Barcelona player leaving the impression that, when injuries leave him alone, he's a game-changing footballer.His vision, ability to link up play, and runs into the box made him a very valuable asset for the team. However, the reality was that his muscle problems kept him from the consistency needed to secure the attacking midfield position.

Now, at the start of the new season, the situation has changed and the outlook he faces is more demanding than it was a year ago. Internal competition has intensified. With a deeper squad, Olmo knows that keeping a regular spot in the starting eleven will require more consistency, flawless physical condition, and performances that make a difference.

In a Barça where the role of the attacking midfielder is key to connecting the midfield with the forwards, there's no room for complacency.

New competition in the battle for the attacking midfield

The arrival of Marcus Rashford gives Hansi Flick the chance to move pieces and reorganize the attacking line. In certain systems, the German coach could move Raphinha to the center to occupy the attacking midfield, which would mean Olmo would take on a more secondary role. Added to this is Fermín's rise, who finished last season in great form and has convinced the coaching staff.

But the name that's drawn the most attention in recent weeks is Dro, who's taken advantage of the preseason to earn consideration within the squad. Although his long-term projection is yet to be confirmed, what he's shown in friendlies has earned Flick's attention.

The strategic role of the attacking midfield

In the system Flick has been testing, the attacking midfield becomes a nerve center of the attack. It's the position responsible for breaking through opposing lines, threading the final pass, and creating overloads near the opponent's box. In this sense, Olmo has the experience and technique needed to adapt to different contexts, something that keeps him as one of the first options on the coach's board.

However, his ability to keep that status will depend on whether he can deliver consistent performances and stay free from physical setbacks. At the club, they see Dro as a profile with room to grow quickly, which could translate into minutes as the season progresses. For Olmo, that means the competition isn't just with established teammates, but also with young players pushing hard from below.

The battle for the attacking midfield, therefore, will be one of the most attractive storylines to follow this new season. Even more so given that any dip in performance could immediately alter the hierarchy.