FC Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo is set to be sidelined for a period of four weeks after suffering an adductor tear during the team's 4-2 loss to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday night.
His absence over the coming weeks will have knock-on effects across Barcelona's midfield, with several players potentially seeing their roles change, while opportunities could open up for others.
The positive news for Hansi Flick is that midfield is the most well-stocked area of his squad, although Olmo offers a unique profile that no other player can fully replicate.
Here are the main alternatives and the players who could benefit from his absence.
Fermin Lopezwas already Flick's first choice in the attacking midfield role, but Olmo's injury will make him even more indispensable. He was expected to start El Clasico anyway, and there are now even fewer doubts about his place in the line-up.
His presence brings aggression both on and off the ball, defensive work rate and a goal threat. However, he does not offer the same composure or clarity in possession as Olmo.
Olmo's absence could also mean fewer opportunities for Fermin to rest, although Flick has other options available to give him a break when needed.
More responsibility for Fermin. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)
Flick has repeatedly shown that he will find a way to incorporate Gaviinto his plans. Since taking charge at Barcelona, he has used the midfielder as an interior, an attacking midfielder, a holding midfielder and even a false winger.
Gavi came on for Pedri against PSG in the 60th minute and played as an interior midfielder, but Olmo's injury could now increase his chances of featuring in the attacking midfield role.
In recent seasons, Gavi has appeared more comfortable operating closer to the base of midfield. Nevertheless, he knows the attacking role well and can contribute both to the press and with forward runs into the penalty area.
When Frenkie de Jongreturned from injury, finding a place for him in the team looked difficult. Flick had eight midfielders competing for three positions.
Rodri and Marc Bernal were ahead of him in the pecking order as holding midfielders, while opportunities in the interior and attacking midfield roles were also limited.
Olmo's injury changes the picture in the latter position. It is not De Jong's preferred role, as he likes to face the play and dictate proceedings from deeper areas, but Flick has used him there on several occasions.
An opening for De Jong? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Another option would be to pair Rodri and De Jong in the two deeper midfield positions, with Pedrioperating as the attacking midfielder.
The alternatives of Brian Farinas, who played as both a holding midfielder and an interior for the reserve team, and Xavi Espart, who is establishing himself at right-back, appear less likely.
Flick can also look to the reserve side, where two players he worked with during pre-season made a strong impression: Ebrima Tunkaraand Orian Goren.
Both operate as interior midfielders for Barça Atletic, where Juliano Belletti does not use a fixed attacking midfielder, but either could comfortably fill that role.
Ebrima is a dynamic midfielder who is more focused on making forward runs than controlling the game, with outstanding physical attributes.
Goren, meanwhile, is capable in one-on-one situations and is more closely involved in the overall build-up play than Ebrima, who has become an undisputed starter for the reserve team.
Olmo's absence therefore presents Flick with several options, from established first-team players to promising youngsters.
