According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has six potential options to consider following Dani Olmo's adductor injury, which is expected to keep the midfielder sidelined for four weeks.

The Spaniard suffered the injury during Barcelona's 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, leaving Flick to reconsider his midfield selection ahead of upcoming fixtures, including El Clasico.

Olmo's absence is a significant setback because of his creativity and composure in possession. However, Barcelona have several alternatives who could step up during his recovery.

Fermin Lopez is expected to shoulder greater responsibility in attacking midfield. He was already Flick's preferred option for the role and is now even more likely to feature against Real Madrid. His pressing intensity, defensive commitment and ability to make dangerous runs into the box make him valuable, although he does not offer Olmo's composure.

Gavi is another candidate who could benefit from the situation. Flick has deployed him in several midfield positions, including attacking midfield. His pressing ability and forward runs could make him suitable for the role despite his recent preference for playing deeper.

Frenkie de Jong could also receive more opportunities. Although the Dutchman prefers controlling games from deeper positions, Flick has previously used him in an advanced role. Another possibility involves pairing him with Rodri in deeper midfield positions while Pedri operates further forward.

Barcelona could also consider Brian Farinas and Xavi Espart, although both appear less likely to receive opportunities in attacking midfield.

The club's reserve team offers two additional alternatives in Ebrima Tunkara and Orian Goren. Both impressed Flick during pre-season and currently play as interior midfielders for Barcelona Atletic.

Tunkara brings physical strength, dynamism and forward runs, while Goren offers greater involvement in build-up play and possesses strong one-on-one abilities.

Olmo's injury therefore creates an important selection dilemma for Flick. Nevertheless, Barcelona's midfield depth provides several possible solutions as the manager prepares his team for a demanding period.