Flick: 'Olmo can help control the game'

Flick: 'Olmo can help control the game'

According to Mundodeportivo.

Why it matters

Hansi Flick's decision to include Dani Olmo in the lineup reflects his strategy for UEFA Champions League football. Facing Galatasaray, a prominent UEFA Champions League club, ball control is essential to maintain their season outlook and avoid any match impact from opponent pressure.

Key Points

• Flick: 'Olmo can help control the game'.
• According to Hansi Flick, he chose to include Dani Olmo in the lineup to help control the ball and manage minutes while preparing Barcelona for the pressure of Galatasaray on the second day of the Champions League.
• Flick: "Olmo nos puede ayudar a controlar el partido".

Hansi Flick did not directly announce whether Dani Olmo will play the 'falso 9' role in the upcoming Galatasaray–Barcelona matchday two of the UEFA Champions League 2026-27, but the reason for his decision to include the player from Terrassa in the first lineup is clear. In an interview for Movistar, the Blaugrana coach explained that the combination of Olmo with Rodri, Pedri and Fermín — and the presence of more pure attackers like Lamine and Gordon — has a clear objective: to control the flow of the game more. "They will press, we analyzed and they do it in every game, so we have to control the game. I chose to put Olmo because he can also control the ball and have to manage the amount of minutes he plays," he said. Flick's statement describes his tactical thinking: finding the balance between having players who can contribute to positional control and traditional strikers who will provide a finishing threat.

In the context of the Champions League, it will be important for Barcelona to be good on the ball especially if they hope to prevent opposition pressure. According to Flick, they analyzed the behavior of Galatasaray and saw that they were constantly pressing, so the Blaugrana should prepare not only for counter-attacking but also for controlling the possession of the ball. Olmo's inclusion in the plan can provide an optional mechanism for switching positions up front: if necessary, he can contribute to the formation from the back, collaborate in midfield with Rodri and Pedri, or move inside to make space for faster attackers like Lamine and Gordon. Flick also emphasizes the management of minutes played—an aspect often considered in a series of lengthy campaigns that include league and continental competition. Flick did not give a final lineup or a confirmed position for Olmo in the interview, but the message was clear: he expects intense pressure from Galatasaray and believes Olmo can help control the game while also looking after the group's condition. Expect a tactical battle in the upcoming clash on matchday two of the 2026-27 Champions League, with the coach weighing up how best to use the squad to gain an advantage.

What's next

Olmo's role is expected to be important in the upcoming matches, especially in the UEFA Champions League challenges. His ability to control the ball will help Barcelona maintain their position in the group and achieve victory in the next games.

Frequently Asked Questions

What role will Dani Olmo play in the match between Barcelona and Galatasaray?

Hansi Flick did not directly announce whether Dani Olmo would play the 'falso 9' role, but included him in the first lineup to help control the game.

What is Barcelona's goal in this match?

Barcelona's aim is to better control the flow of the game and prevent the pressure of Galatasaray, who are known to press all game.

Who are the players with Dani Olmo in the midfield?

Dani Olmo joins Rodri, Pedri, and Fermín in the midfield.

What effect does this match have on the standin gs of the UEFA Champions League?

This match is important for Barcelona to be good in possession and maintain a good position in the UEFA Champions League standings.

When is Barcelona's next UEFA Champions League match?

Barcelona's next match is against Galatasaray on the second day of the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League.

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