Barcelona Name Six Midfield Options as Star Faces Four Weeks Injury Lay-off

According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick is weighing six potential alternatives to replace Dani Olmo after the midfielder suffered an adductor injury that is expected to keep him out of action for around four weeks.

Olmo picked up the injury during Barcelona’s 4-2 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, leaving Flick with an important selection decision ahead of a busy run of fixtures, particularly Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid.

The Spain international’s absence represents a considerable blow to Barcelona because of his technical quality, creativity and ability to influence attacking moves in tight spaces. However, Flick has several players available who could help fill the gap during his recovery.

Fermin Lopez appears to be the leading candidate to take over the attacking midfield role. The young Spaniard has already been trusted in that position by Flick, and Olmo’s injury could further increase his chances of starting against Real Madrid.

Fermin’s aggressive pressing, willingness to track back and ability to make forward runs into the penalty area suit Barcelona’s style of play. However, his game differs from Olmo’s, particularly when it comes to composure and controlling possession under pressure.

Gavi is another option Flick could consider. The midfielder has experience operating in different roles across the middle of the pitch, including in an advanced position. His energy, pressing and ability to break forward could make him a useful alternative, although he has recently been used more frequently in deeper midfield areas.

Frenkie de Jong could also be considered for a more advanced role despite his preference for dictating play from deeper positions. Flick has previously experimented with the Dutchman further forward, giving the manager another tactical possibility.

Alternatively, Barcelona could deploy De Jong alongside Rodri in deeper midfield positions, allowing Pedri to operate higher up the pitch. Such an arrangement could help maintain control of possession while providing additional support to the team’s attacking players.

Brian Farinas and Xavi Espart are also among the names mentioned as possible alternatives, although both are considered less likely to be selected for the attacking midfield position at this stage.

Flick could also look towards Barcelona Atletic for additional options, with Ebrima Tunkara and Orian Goren reportedly attracting attention following their performances during pre-season.

Tunkara offers physical strength, energy and the ability to make forward runs from midfield. Goren, meanwhile, is regarded as a technically gifted player who contributes to build-up play and possesses the ability to beat opponents in one-on-one situations.

Despite these alternatives, Fermin remains a prominent candidate to benefit immediately from Olmo’s absence, given his experience in the role and familiarity with Flick’s tactical demands.

Barcelona must now find the right balance in midfield as they prepare for a crucial period of the season. With El Clasico approaching, Flick’s decision could have a significant impact on how his side approaches the encounter while Olmo works towards his return.

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