Barcelona fan-favourite emerges as strong option to replace injured Rodri against Atletico Madrid

Barcelona fan-favourite emerges as strong option to replace injured Rodri against Atletico Madrid Barcelona could also turn to Gavi for Sunday’s LaLiga meeting with Atletico Madrid, although Marc Bernal and Frenkie de Jong remain stronger candidates to replace the injured Rodri, reports Mundo Deportivo   For now, manager Hansi Flick has several midfield alternatives available for this clash, with the decision likely to depend on multiple factors, including experience and form. This situation arrives as Rodri has been ruled out after medical tests confirmed a minor injury to his right hamstring.  Barcelona announced on November 4 that the midfielder would miss the crucial La Liga fixture, leaving Flick with an important selection decision ahead of the trip to the Metropolitano. Gavi’s inclusion in the discussion is particularly interesting given his experience in high-pressure matches and his ability to adapt to different midfield roles.  However, it is crucial to note that the 22-year-old should not be considered the leading candidate at this stage. Bernal and De Jong lead Barcelona’s midfield options Marc Bernal has solid grounds to replace Rodri. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) As reported before, though, Bernal is the most natural replacement for Rodri .  The academy graduate has already demonstrated his suitability for the role, having started against Elche, Athletic Club, Rayo Vallecano and Paris Saint-Germain this season. Furthermore, De Jong is another possibility after recovering from his injury problems. The Dutchman returned during the Clasico and subsequently started against Alaves, although he was a substitute against Aston Villa. His experience and ability to control possession offer Flick a different profile from Bernal. Gavi’s experience in decisive matches gives Flick a strong option Gavi’s case is built on his performances during the closing stages of Barcelona’s previous campaign.  After recovering from his serious knee injury, the midfielder became an important option for Flick in several demanding fixtures, demonstrating that he could be trusted when the stakes were high. Gavi will bring a different profile than Frenkie de Jong and Bernal. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) He featured in the Catalan derby against Espanyol, where he operated as a left winger, before starting in tricky away encounters against Osasuna and Getafe.  He also played as a central midfielder in El Clasico against Real Madrid, the match in which Barcelona mathematically secured the La Liga title. Those appearances showed Gavi’s tactical flexibility and competitive intensity.  His ability to press aggressively, recover possession, and support attacking transitions gives Flick a different midfield profile from both Bernal and De Jong. As stated before, the decision will depend on the type of performance Flick expects against Atletico.  Bernal offers the most natural replacement for Rodri, while De Jong brings greater experience in controlling possession. Gavi, on the other hand, could provide intensity and tactical flexibility in a physically demanding contest.