Real Madrid’s upcoming El Clasico seems to have played an important role in Hansi Flick’s decisions during Barcelona’s 4-2 defeat to PSG.
The German manager very clearly prioritised the fitness of several key players ahead of Sunday’s showdown.
The Barcelona coach admitted after the match that the Clasico had influenced his team selection and rotations.
Flick protects key players ahead of Real Madrid clash
The clearest indication came before kick-off, when Rodri was surprisingly left out of Barcelona’s starting line-up.
The midfielder did not feel ready to sustain maximum intensity for 90 minutes, prompting Flick to start Marc Bernal instead.
Rodri eventually entered the match once the tempo had dropped, although he still appeared uncomfortable. Flick subsequently confirmed that the midfielder would feature against Madrid.
Rodri was rested against PSG with a view of El Clasico. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Pedri and Raphinha were also withdrawn around the hour mark, limiting their workload ahead of the weekend.
Raphinha’s substitution was particularly understandable given his limited involvement against Real Betis and his recent return from injury.
Flick also replaced Xavi Espart in the 74th minute, seemingly unwilling to risk another defensive setback.
Barca are clearly wary of Real Madrid
Barcelona have one more day than Real Madrid to prepare for the Clasico, and yet they have shown how wary they are. Mourinho, on the other hand, is not planning any rotations tonight.
Sunday’s fixture influenced Barcelona’s approach against PSG, and this gives Los Blancos much more incentive.
Even facing the reigning European champions, Flick felt compelled to manage the minutes of several important players.
That underlines the importance of the Clasico and the physical concerns surrounding Barcelona’s squad.
Hansi Flick has shown how wary he is of Real Madrid ahead of El Clasico. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
However, Madrid will know better than to mistake Flick’s caution for weakness. Barca will come out all guns blazing against Los Blancos.
By protecting Pedri, Raphinha and Rodri, the German may have improved his chances of fielding a stronger line-up on Sunday.
The six-point gap makes this a particularly important opportunity for Madrid to regain ground in the title race.
Should they fail to win on Sunday, they run the risk of dropping nine points behind the defending La Liga champions.
Barca’s preparations have clearly been shaped by the Clasico. Now, the onus is on Madrid to ensure that the attention Flick has given to Sunday’s encounter does not pay off.