In a major development, SPORT’s Carlos Monfort reports that Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is set to bench Lamine Yamal for the game against Athletic Club.
The Barcelona winger has been carrying a physical complaint and did not take part in the pre-match training session yesterday.
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Reports earlier today suggested that the 18-year-old rising superstar was feeling well and was primed to be named in the starting XI for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final.
However, manager Flick has decided not to take any risks and to prioritise the youngster’s health, bearing in mind that the objective is to reach the final and approach it with as many players as possible in a rested condition.
Set to be rested. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
As such, Lamine will not start the match against Ernesto Valverde’s men and will begin the game on the bench.
Defensive rotations likely
Beyond that, defensive rotations are expected tonight as part of a plan that could prove striking, the report claims.
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Flick is looking for an intense but balanced team, while keeping in mind the demands of the calendar and the importance of managing physical efforts at a crucial stage of the season.
So, there could be some interesting tweaks on the cards at the back as Barcelona get set to take on Athletic Club with a place in the Super Cup semifinal on the line.
