Barcelona fan-favourite at risk of missing El Clasico if booked vs Real Valladolid | OneFootball

With the second leg of the Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan looming and a season-defining El Clasico on the horizon, Hansi Flick faces a delicate balancing act as Barcelona prepare to face bottom-of-the-table Valladolid.

The Catalans travel to the already-relegated side for what, on paper, seems a straightforward La Liga fixture, but the timing and context surrounding it raise serious questions about team selection.

Valladolid may be mathematically out of the top flight, but this fixture has major implications for Barça, not because of the opponent, but because of what follows.

The next La Liga match is none other than the decisive clash with Real Madrid at Montjuïc on May 11 — a fixture that could swing the title race. That means Flick must think beyond three points in Valladolid. He must think about yellow cards.

Players at risk

Barça currently have four players walking a suspension tightrope. With Jules Kounde ruled out through injury, the focus shifts to the other three, namely, Inigo Martinez, Raphinha, and Gavi.

Of those, Martinez and Raphinha have been heavily involved in recent weeks and are likely candidates to be rested. Flick won’t want to risk losing them to suspension with El Clasico on the line.

Gavi is at risk. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Gavi, however, presents a more complicated scenario. Having played just 42 minutes across the Copa del Rey final and the first leg against Inter, the young midfielder is widely expected to start against Valladolid.

A problematic situation with Gavi

Flick sees him as a key piece in maintaining midfield intensity and balance, especially with so many rotations planned. But here lies the risk: one more yellow, and Gavi misses the Madrid clash.

In a match that could allow for some experimentation and rest, Flick will be urging Gavi to maintain discipline without compromising his trademark energy and aggression.

That is easier said than done for a player who thrives on physical battles and emotional intensity.

The danger is real: losing Gavi for the Clasico could be a major blow to Barcelona’s tactical structure.

His versatility, pressing ability and willingness to cover ground give Flick important flexibility, especially in matches where the midfield battle can define the outcome.