Barcelona have named a 23-man squad for their match against Elche, with Rodri and Balde both omitted from head coach Flick’s travelling party.
According to Diario Sport, Barcelona have travelled to Elche ahead of the fixture, with Rodri excluded because his physical condition is not yet considered sufficient for competitive action. Flick had already indicated at his press conference that the player would not be involved.
Balde’s absence is more significant, with uncertainty continuing to surround his future at Barcelona. The defender has been left out despite the club preparing for the match, adding to the speculation over his position within Flick’s plans.
Rodri is expected to return for next Thursday’s meeting with Athletic Bilbao. That fixture was initially scheduled for the opening round of the season, but was postponed to give players from both sides additional rest after taking part in the World Cup.
Frenkie de Jong is the only player missing from the squad because of injury. His knee discomfort has not completely cleared, following an issue that previously led to considerable discussion. De Jong has chosen a conservative approach to treatment while continuing his rehabilitation.
Macado and Hector Forte have also departed from the first-team group. Neither player is currently training with the squad, and both are waiting for their futures to be resolved. They are not included in Flick’s plans for the season.
Young players included
Belgian youngster Jese Bisseuma, who is associated with Barcelona Atletic, is not involved because his registration has not yet been completed. His arrangements are now being coordinated by Giuliano Belletti.
Barcelona Atletic are due to play in Vilanova on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 1 a.m. Beijing time, which is the following day in CEST.
Several other reserve-team players have been included after impressing Flick during pre-season. Cortes, Espart, Hamza, Peque and third-choice goalkeeper Idler Ariel are all part of the squad, while Espart and Hamza are among those who could potentially start.
Flick has not faced registration problems during the current season. With the exception of Bisseuma, all of Barcelona’s new signings have been registered and included in the squad. That group includes Christensen, whose contract renewal has now been completed.
Barcelona squad for Elche:
Goalkeepers: Joan Garcia, Szczesny, Idler Ariel
Defenders: Cancelo, Eric, Cubarsi, Christensen, Kounde, Gerard Martin, Espart, Cortes, Peque
Midfielders: Gavira, Pedri, Fermin, Olmo, Bernal, Casado
Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Gundogan, Adeyemi, Hamza
