Hansi Flick weighs risky Rodri decision before Barcelona face PSG – report

According to a report by Barca Universal on Monday October 19, 2026, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is considering a risky tactical decision ahead of his team’s UEFA Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain, with midfielder Rodri emerging as a possible option in central defence.

According to reports, Barcelona’s defensive injury problems could force Flick to deploy the Spanish international in an unfamiliar position when the Catalan giants travel to face the French champions.

Barcelona are currently dealing with the absences of Eric García, Jules Koundé and Andreas Christensen, leaving Flick with limited options in central defence ahead of the important European encounter.

The report suggests that Flick could repeat an experiment from Barcelona’s recent victory over Real Betis, when Rodri was moved into central defence during the closing stages of the match.

However, the decision would come with significant tactical consequences, particularly because Rodri has become an important figure in Barcelona’s midfield.

The midfielder’s ability to control possession, distribute the ball accurately and dictate the tempo has been crucial to Flick’s playing style this season.

Moving him into defence could help address the club’s immediate problems at the back, but it could also weaken Barcelona’s ability to dominate the midfield against PSG.

The availability of Gerard Martin could play a decisive role in determining whether Flick makes the change.

The defender reportedly suffered a heavy blow to his heel during Barcelona’s 5-2 victory over Real Betis. Despite the concern, he has been included in the travelling squad for the match against PSG.

If Martin is fit enough to partner Pau Cubarsí in central defence, Flick could keep Rodri in his preferred midfield position.

That would allow Barcelona to maintain their usual structure and avoid making unnecessary changes ahead of a difficult encounter.

However, if Martin is unable to start, Flick may have to consider alternative defensive arrangements, with Rodri potentially being asked to fill the position.

The decision will be particularly important because PSG possess a talented midfield featuring Vitinha, Fabián Ruiz and João Neves.

Keeping Rodri alongside Pedri could give Barcelona greater control in the centre of the pitch and help them deal with PSG’s aggressive pressing.

Rodri’s performances this season underline why Flick may be reluctant to move him away from midfield.

Against Getafe, the Spanish international completed 119 of his 124 attempted passes, recording a 96 per cent success rate in 71 minutes.

Barcelona also enjoyed 83 per cent possession during that match, demonstrating their ability to dominate the game through their passing and movement.

Rodri continued his impressive performances in the 4-1 victory over Galatasaray, playing the full 90 minutes as Barcelona completed 632 passes from 694 attempts.

He was equally influential against Real Betis, completing 126 passes with a 98 per cent success rate, creating two chances and completing all 10 of his attempted long balls.

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