FC Barcelona approach the most decisive match of the season with a loss that cuts deep into the heart of Barcelonismo: Lamine Yamal. The young number 10, a differential factor in Hansi Flick’s attack, will miss El Clásico due to injury, leaving a vacancy on the right wing that could define the fate of La Liga.
With the title on the line – a win or a draw would effectively move the trophy closer to the Camp Nou cabinets – Flick is weighing three names to cover the right flank. We analyse the pros and cons of Roony Bardghji, Marcus Rashford, and Raphinha.
1. Roony Bardghji: The “Pure Winger” Bet
The Swede is, by nature, the most logical replacement. He’s the only pure right winger left in the squad following Lamine’s injury, and Flick has already handed him starts against Getafe and Osasuna.
- Pros: He would maintain the team’s usual tactical shape. His dribbling and ability to beat his man could exploit a Real Madrid side plagued by doubts at left-back (with Mendy injured and Fran García under scrutiny).
- Cons: Pressure seems to have weighed on him in recent matches. He appeared inhibited at El Sadar and imprecise in Getafe. Is a youngster of his profile ready for the high-tension stage of a Clásico?
2. Marcus Rashford: Talent and Inconsistency
The Englishman has been on an emotional rollercoaster since his arrival. Although Flick has only deployed him on the right four times, his recent performances as a substitute have been brilliant.
- Pros: His technical quality is indisputable. He is fresh off scoring against Getafe and providing a masterclass assist to Robert Lewandowski in Pamplona. Rashford possesses that “star quality” capable of deciding a big game with a single touch.
- Cons: His lack of defensive sacrifice is Flick’s greatest fear. Playing on the right requires constantly tracking back to help the full-back contain a Vinicius Junior who is currently in top form. Furthermore, Rashford usually performs better with space and on the left.
3. Raphinha: The Warrior Racing Against the Clock
If El Clásico were played on “heart” alone, Raphinha would be the undisputed starter. The Brazilian is the barometer of Barça’s pressing, but his physical condition remains the big question mark.
- Pros: Tireless work rate and experience. Raphinha has already proven he can adapt to the right wing to leave the left for Rashford. His ability to disrupt Madrid’s buildup play would be vital.
- Cons: He is cutting it very close. Although he received medical clearance before the Osasuna match, he didn’t play a single minute. Starting a Clásico after a muscular injury is a risk Flick might not want to take, potentially saving him as a “silver bullet” for the second half.
The Verdict
Hansi Flick faces a tactical puzzle. If he seeks continuity, Bardghji will be the chosen one. If he seeks verticality, he will gamble on Rashford. However, if the German coach decides to prioritize control and intensity from minute one, he will do everything possible to get Raphinha back into the XI.
Without Lamine, Barça loses flair, but gains a challenge: proving that Flick’s system is collectively solid, regardless of individual stars.
