Bombshell at Barcelona! Flick prepares to bench Ballon d'Or winner for PSG showdown
A huge surprise could be coming at Barcelona just hours before one of the biggest matches of the Champions League! Hansi Flick is reportedly preparing to leave Ballon d'Or winner Rodri out of his starting lineup against Paris Saint-Germain, a decision that could dramatically change the Catalan giants' approach to the game.
Details: According to journalist Alfredo Martínez, Barcelona midfielder Rodri is expected to begin the Champions League encounter against Paris Saint-Germain on the substitutes' bench. The Spanish international, who joined the Catalan club from Manchester City in August 2026, has been an important part of Hansi Flick's midfield plans. However, the latest information suggests that the German coach could make an unexpected adjustment for Tuesday's meeting at the Parc des Princes. The official starting lineup has not yet been announced, and the reasons behind the reported decision remain unclear.
The report is particularly surprising considering Barcelona's midfield situation. The Catalan club is already without Frenkie de Jong, who has been ruled out of the encounter because of his ongoing recovery from injury. The Dutch international is not expected to return before November, leaving Flick with fewer experienced options in the centre of the pitch. Rodri's potential absence from the starting eleven would therefore create an additional tactical challenge for the German manager.
Since arriving from Manchester City during the summer transfer window, Rodri has brought enormous experience to Barcelona. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner established himself as one of the world's leading defensive midfielders during his time in England, helping City dominate domestic football and win the Champions League. His ability to control possession, dictate the tempo and protect the defence made him one of Barcelona's most significant summer acquisitions. Leaving such an influential player on the bench for a European heavyweight clash would naturally attract considerable attention.
Flick nevertheless has several alternatives available. Pedri has been one of Barcelona's most influential players this season, while Gavi, Fermín López and Marc Bernal offer different characteristics in central areas. The coaching staff could look to introduce more energy, pressing intensity or attacking movement against Luis Enrique's side. Another possibility is that the German manager wants to manage Rodri's workload during an especially demanding period, although no official explanation supporting that theory has been provided.
The decision could have important consequences because of the opposition Barcelona are facing. PSG have won their opening two Champions League matches and scored ten goals, including four against Manchester City. Luis Enrique's team are known for their aggressive pressing, technical midfield and ability to exploit spaces during transitions. Against such an opponent, control of the central areas may become one of the decisive factors. Rodri's experience would normally appear particularly valuable in that situation.
Barcelona have also made a perfect start to their European campaign, beating Feyenoord 5:1 and Galatasaray 4:1. Flick's side have won all eleven of their competitive matches this season, demonstrating exceptional attacking efficiency. However, defensive injuries have created serious concerns ahead of the trip to Paris. Andreas Christensen, Jules Koundé and Eric García are unavailable, while the return of Raphinha could provide an important attacking boost. The potential decision to leave Rodri among the substitutes adds another unexpected dimension to an already complicated selection process.
The timing also makes the situation especially intriguing. Barcelona will face Real Madrid in El Clásico on October 25, just five days after the PSG encounter. Flick must balance the importance of an elite European fixture with the physical demands of a crowded schedule. Whether Rodri is being rested or whether the coaching staff has prepared a different tactical approach will only become clear when the starting lineup is confirmed.
It's worth noting that Rodri joined Barcelona from Manchester City in August 2026 and signed a contract until June 2030. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner featured alongside Pedri in Barcelona's starting lineup against Galatasaray on October 13. The Champions League encounter with PSG is scheduled for October 20 at the Parc des Princes in Paris. Despite reports suggesting Rodri will begin on the bench, his participation and exact role remain subject to official team selection.
Reminder: Disaster for Barca! De Jong ruled out of PSG clash and El Clasico.
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
