Rodri set for Barcelona debut against Athletic Club as Gavi ruled out with knee injury

Rodri is set to make his first appearance for Barcelona when the Catalan club host Athletic Club, with manager Hansi Flick confirming the Spain international will feature from the bench. The news comes as Gavi is ruled out of the fixture after suffering a knee bruise during last weekend’s La Liga opener against Elche.

Rodri did not feature in Barcelona’s season opener, but Flick has now outlined a plan to introduce him gradually. The German coach indicated Rodri would play a few minutes against Athletic Club, signalling a substitute role rather than a place in the starting eleven.

Looking further ahead, Flick has identified Rodri as the long-term midfield partner for Pedri in a double pivot. The coach said he was looking forward to seeing the two play together, pointing to Rodri’s experience and leadership as key qualities that would help Barcelona control possession and dictate tempo against opponents.

With Gavi sidelined, Pedri is expected to step into the starting lineup. Gavi was withdrawn at half-time against Elche, replaced by Pedri, and while Flick noted the midfielder was feeling considerably better than immediately after the match, a return is not expected for roughly a week.

Marc Bernal, Eric García, and Xavi Espart are among the other central midfield options available to Flick as he manages the squad rotation during Gavi’s absence. Rodri’s arrival nonetheless represents the most significant development in Barcelona’s midfield picture, with his debut against Athletic Club marking the start of what Flick envisions as a pivotal partnership at the heart of the team.