Flick Drops Major Barcelona Team News: Gabriel Jesus Set to Start as De Jong Faces Getafe Absence
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has delivered several important updates ahead of the clash with Getafe, addressing the fitness of Raphinha, Frenkie de Jong and Joan Garcia while offering encouraging words about Lamine Yamal and the club’s emerging young talents.
The biggest news concerns Gabriel Jesus, who is expected to start as Barcelona take a cautious approach with Raphinha. De Jong, meanwhile, is targeting a return against Real Betis, while goalkeeper Joan Garcia appears ready to feature.
With a demanding schedule approaching, Flick must balance the need for consistency with careful squad management. However, the German coach has made it clear that Barcelona’s immediate priority is securing a strong performance against Getafe.
Gabriel Jesus Expected to Lead Barcelona’s Attack
Raphinha will miss the Getafe match despite not suffering a serious injury, with Barcelona determined to avoid aggravating his recurring fitness problems.
Flick explained the decision to protect the Brazilian, who dealt with several injury setbacks last season.
“He doesn’t have a serious injury. He had too many injuries last season, and we have to be careful. He won’t play tomorrow,” the Barcelona manager said.
His absence is expected to open the door for Gabriel Jesus to lead the attack. Flick suggested that the striker has made significant progress and is ready to take on a starting role.
“The idea is for him to start tomorrow. He’s improved a lot and fits our style. He’s doing very well, he’s ready,” Flick confirmed.
The decision comes at a demanding stage of the season, with Barcelona facing five matches in a relatively short period. Managing player workloads will therefore be crucial if the team is to maintain its intensity across competitions.
Flick acknowledged the difficulty of the schedule but insisted that it was something the squad had to manage.
“It’s part of our job. I can’t change it. We have to be prepared for the upcoming matches,” he said.
The coach also dismissed suggestions that Barcelona were already looking beyond Getafe.
“We always aim to do our best in the next match. Getafe won’t be an easy game; they’ve qualified for the Conference.
“It’s never easy to play against them, but our focus is on Getafe.”
Frenkie de Jong Targets Return Against Real Betis
Barcelona have received an encouraging boost with Frenkie de Jong returning to training, but Flick is unwilling to rush the midfielder back before he is fully ready.
The Dutch international is reportedly targeting the subsequent fixture against Real Betis, giving him additional time to regain full match fitness.
“Our plan is for him to play in the next match against Betis. He’s not in pain and can do everything, but he needs more time and we’re going to give it to him,” Flick explained.
De Jong could also provide a solution in central defence if Barcelona require additional options in that position.
Asked whether the midfielder could play at centre-back, Flick replied: “Yes, he can play there. Frenkie is one of the options.”
His versatility could prove valuable during Barcelona’s congested run of fixtures, particularly if defensive injuries or workload concerns force Flick to adjust his usual lineup.
Joan Garcia Closing in on a Starting Place
There is more positive news regarding Joan Garcia, who appears to have made encouraging progress in training ahead of the Getafe encounter.
Flick indicated that the goalkeeper could be available to start, although he also acknowledged that other options remain under consideration.
“Livakovic is always an option, as is Tek. But from what we saw today, Joan is in great shape and I think he’ll be able to start,” he said.
Garcia’s potential return would give Barcelona another boost as they prepare for a challenging stretch of matches. His availability could also provide greater clarity over Flick’s goalkeeping selection for the immediate future.
The manager’s comments suggest that the final decision will depend on the player’s condition and the coaching staff’s assessment.
Flick Explains Barcelona’s Approach to Raphinha’s Fitness
Raphinha’s absence is a significant consideration for Barcelona, particularly given his importance to the team's pressing, creativity and attacking intensity.
However, Flick’s comments indicate that the club is prioritising the Brazilian’s long-term fitness rather than taking unnecessary risks in a single match.
The manager was also asked about the demands of international football and the Brazilian’s desire to represent his country.
“It’s the national team and everyone wants to play for their country. That’s Raphinha’s mindset. We can’t change the fixtures,” Flick said.
The situation highlights the challenge clubs face when managing players who regularly compete for both their teams and their national sides. With Barcelona’s schedule becoming increasingly demanding, keeping key attackers fit could be just as important as their performances on the pitch.
Marc Bernal Could Offer Another Defensive Solution
Flick also discussed Marc Bernal’s potential role in central defence after the youngster trained in the position.
Although the midfielder is still developing, the Barcelona manager believes his versatility could make him a useful option when the team needs to adapt.
“He’s played there a few times in training. He’s a very young player and can play in many positions. He’s been doing very well in recent matches; he’s playing at a high level. He could be an option,” Flick explained.
Bernal’s ability to operate in different positions could give Barcelona greater flexibility as they navigate their demanding schedule. However, Flick’s comments indicate that the role remains a possibility rather than a confirmed change to the youngster’s position.
The manager also highlighted the importance of Barcelona’s pressing, suggesting that the team has shown encouraging signs in training.
“In training today, I saw some very good things in terms of pressing. They pressed very well when they lost the ball; it’s part of our mentality.”
That approach remains central to Flick’s football, with Barcelona seeking to win possession quickly and prevent opponents from launching dangerous counterattacks.
Flick Backs Lamine Yamal to Become the World’s Best
Lamine Yamal also received a strong vote of confidence from Flick following his impressive performances for Barcelona and Spain.
The teenager has continued to attract attention with his creativity, confidence and ability to influence matches, but the manager stressed that expectations must be balanced against his age.
“He’s played very well for us in the first few matches and has been impressive for the national team. Lamine is 19 years old – we mustn’t forget that,” Flick said.
The coach added that he was satisfied with the youngster’s playing time and hoped he would maintain his current level.
“As far as I’m concerned, the minutes he’s played are fine. Let’s hope he maintains the standard he’s shown in these matches.
“He loves playing football; when he’s confident, he’s incredible. He’ll be the best in the world.”
Flick’s remarks underline Barcelona’s belief in Yamal’s extraordinary potential while acknowledging the importance of managing his development carefully.
With Raphinha unavailable for the Getafe match, Yamal could carry additional responsibility in the attacking third, depending on Flick’s selection and tactical setup.
Xavi Espart’s Renewal Delights Flick
Flick also welcomed Xavi Espart’s contract renewal, expressing his satisfaction at the prospect of working with the young defender for years to come.
The Barcelona manager emphasised that competition for places is essential, particularly at a club seeking to compete across multiple competitions.
“We have several positions where there are two or three players who can fill that role. That’s what I want to see in training – that anyone can play,” Flick explained.
He also expressed his happiness about Espart’s future at the club.
“It’s brilliant to be able to enjoy Xavi Espart’s company for many years to come,” Flick concluded.
The comments reflect Flick’s desire to build a squad in which young academy players have opportunities to compete with established professionals. With Joao Cancelo also available as an option, Barcelona have several possibilities to consider when selecting their defensive lineup.
Barcelona Must Balance Squad Rotation With Results
Flick’s latest updates reveal the selection challenges facing Barcelona ahead of the Getafe encounter. Gabriel Jesus is expected to start, Joan Garcia appears close to returning, and De Jong is being given additional time to prepare for a possible comeback against Betis.
Meanwhile, Bernal’s versatility could provide another defensive option, while Yamal continues to receive the manager’s backing.
Barcelona will need to manage their players carefully during the upcoming run of fixtures, but Flick has made his priorities clear: maintain the team’s intensity, protect players where necessary and focus on winning the next match.
Getafe now represent the immediate test, and Barcelona will be determined to deliver a strong performance in front of their home supporters.
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