Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo’s injury could finally open the door for Brian Farinas to earn his first competitive appearance for Hansi Flick’s first team, according to a report from SPORT,
Notably, Farinas, 20, is waiting for an opportunity after remaining on the fringes of the senior squad despite being promoted from La Masia.
Barcelona confirmed on October 21 that Olmo had suffered a left adductor injury and was expected to miss around a month, ruling him out of Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid.
His absence leaves Flick with another decision to make in the attacking midfield position.
Farinas waits for his opportunity at Barcelona
Farinas, who is in talks over a contract extension, has endured a difficult start to the campaign in terms of playing time.
Brian Farinas could finally earn his opportunity. (Photo courtesy: X/FC Barcelona_es)
While he has been registered with the first team wearing the number four shirt, he has yet to feature in a competitive match this season.
Notably, Barcelona previously came close to allowing Farinas to leave for Girona during the summer, but Flick intervened and kept him at the club.
The midfielder has continued working with the first team, with the German coach regularly offering guidance and correcting details to help him improve.
Olmo injury opens door for Farinas
Understandably, Fermin Lopez remains a leading option in the attacking midfield role, but Barcelona have several ways to cover Olmo’s absence.
On that note, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Marc Bernal could operate in more advanced positions, while Lamine Yamal and Raphinha offer alternative tactical solutions.
Barcelona want to renew Brian Farinas’ contract. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Farinas is further down the pecking order, but the injury could create a chain reaction that gives him an opportunity to earn minutes.
His versatility across midfield could prove useful as Barcelona navigate a demanding schedule.
As SPORT suggests, Farinas “will end up having his moment”. Flick “does not tremble when it comes to trusting La Masia”, and the Copa del Rey will provide further opportunities as the season progresses.
For now, the next two months could be decisive. Farinas has no option to leave on loan in January at present, while Barcelona are also working towards extending his contract.
His immediate priority, however, is to turn his patience into a competitive first-team opportunity.