Hansi Flick unwilling to risk Barcelona midfielder vs Alaves despite player being fit | OneFootball

Barcelona attacking midfielder Dani Olmo did not train with his teammates this Friday, continuing to recover from a strain in the soleus muscle of his right leg.

In their statement, Barcelona clarified that his return would depend on his progress, but initial reports suggested that he would be out for ten days only.

As such, the game against Deportivo Alaves on Sunday was planned as the return date for the Spanish international.

No risks being taken

However, according to SPORT, Hansi Flick has opted for caution and is not rushing Olmo’s return on Sunday noon.

Although the summer signing is fit enough to play against Alaves in the league match at Montjuic, the coach considers him a vital player and prefers to wait for the right moment, especially for the more important fixtures ahead.

Flickk does not wish to risk Olmo. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

As a result, Olmo will not be included in the squad for the Alaves match, and it remains to be seen whether he will be part of the group travelling to Valencia for the Copa del Rey quarter-final.

Flick has players like Gavi, Fermin Lopez, and Pablo Torre at his disposal, which gives him the luxury of being patient with Olmo’s recovery.

The message from the coaching staff, which Olmo agrees with, is to take things “day by day” before making a decision on his involvement.

Flick, who was the main advocate for Olmo’s signing last summer, sees him as indispensable for his system. As a result, he is taking every precaution to ensure that he is fully ready for the critical matches when they come.

It has not been decided yet whether Olmo will play in the Copa del Rey, and his participation will depend on his recovery starting Monday. If all goes well, he will be ready to play.