Flick plans heavy rotation against Sevilla with an eye on Newcastle United clash - report | Barca Universal

"However, Flick is also aware of the fact that the Barcelona team is exhausted due to the congested fixture list. It was seen right after the game against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey, when both Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde picked up injuries. Even against Newcastle United, Ronald Araujo and Marc Bernal were completely out of energy, whereas Eric Garcia wasn't even included in the starting XI due to an overload."

"According to SPORT, Flick is expected to rest several of the 'theoretical' starters for Barcelona against Sevilla this weekend. It appears the German is prioritising Barcelona's second-leg Round of 16 encounter against Newcastle United. After drawing in the first leg, the Catalans must secure a victory at Camp Nou in order to advance to the quarterfinals."

"Flick, therefore, will ring in the changes against Sevilla, giving opportunities to relatively lesser-used players in the first team. This could see the likes of Roony Bardghji, Marcus Rashford and Dani Olmo potentially play a crucial role as Barcelona take on Sevilla this weekend. Meanwhile, starters like Pedri, Marc Bernal, and Raphinha could be given a breather."

Barcelona faces Sevilla in a crucial league match while holding a four-point lead over Real Madrid. Despite the importance of the game, manager Hansi Flick intends to make significant squad changes to rest key players. The team is experiencing fatigue from a congested fixture schedule, with recent injuries to Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde following the Copa del Rey match against Atletico Madrid. Additional players like Ronald Araujo and Marc Bernal showed signs of exhaustion against Newcastle United. Flick prioritizes the upcoming Champions League Round of 16 second leg against Newcastle at Camp Nou, where Barcelona must win to advance. Lesser-used players including Roony Bardghji, Marcus Rashford, and Dani Olmo may receive playing time, while regular starters like Pedri, Marc Bernal, and Raphinha will be given rest.

Read at Barca Universal