The absence of Lamine Yamal from the pre-match training session ahead of the Barça-Valencia clash this Sunday was quite unexpected. The talent from Rocafonda stayed in the gym due to physical issues, and in the subsequent press conference, Hansi Flick explained the situation. With Lamine absent, the door opens for Roony Bardghji’s opportunity to start, particularly since this is the Swedish player’s first call-up after being registered with a reserve team number. He would sport the number ’28’.
Bardghji is the only natural right winger in the Blaugrana squad, alongside youth player Toni Fernández. While Lamine remained off the field at Tito Vilanova, Fernández was called up by Barça Atlètic, playing in the Segunda RFEF against Andratx.
This is yet another advantage for Roony, who showcased an impressive level during preseason with his speed, dribbling, shooting, and ability to link up with the forward. Despite this, he was the last player listed for registration, ultimately joining the reserve team once space was made available within the salary cap.
Roony Bardghji recently played for Sweden’s U-21 team during the international break, scoring a Panenka-style penalty in the first of their two matches. He returned in time for training, participating in three sessions alongside other internationals who didn’t travel across the Atlantic, to prepare for the matchup against Valencia.
Raphinha, Another Big Option
Bardghji isn’t Hansi Flick’s only option to fill in for Lamine Yamal on the right wing, though he is the most natural choice, alongside Toni Fernández.
Alternate possibilities include positioning Raphinha or even Ferran Torres on the right wing. Although the Brazilian typically plays on the left, his versatility allows Rashford to take the left flank, while Ferran Torres can adapt to any attacking position despite recently playing as a ‘9’. If Torres moves to the wing as he has in the past, Lewandowski could reclaim his role as Barça’s central striker, fittingly in his 150th appearance for the Blaugrana.
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