Barcelona starlet sidelined for three months, but Flick sees him as first-team regular | OneFootball

Barcelona youngster Dani Rodriguez saw his season come to a premature end last weekend as he suffered a shoulder injury on his first-team debut against Real Valladolid.

Starting the game at Estadio Jose Zorrilla, the 19-year-old La Masia winger had looked promising before having to be subbed off in the 38th minute due to a dislocated shoulder.

Earlier today, Barcelona officially confirmed that Rodriguez will undergo surgery on his shoulder on May 15.

Rodriguez out for three months

The statement from Barça did not include any information regarding a possible recovery timeline for Rodriguez, with the club expected to issue another update once his surgery is complete.

However, journalist Fernando Polo reports that the La Masia starlet is expected to be out of action for as long as three months.

Dani Rodriguez is out for three months. (Picture Courtesy: X/FCBarcelona_es)

The journalist further adds that the Basque winger will undergo surgery in San Sebastian, near his birthplace before starting his recovery to make his comeback next season.

Hansi Flick counts on Dani Rodriguez

The report also states that Barcelona first-team manager Hansi Flick has told Dani Rodriguez that he counts on him to become a first-team regular next season.

Given his talent and potential, it was always expected that the 19-year-old could be in consideration for a promotion to the senior setup next term.

Now, it appears that Flick, who holds Dani in high regard, has already informed the teenage Spaniard that he will be a part of the senior team once he returns from injury – providing him further motivation to come back stronger.

Rodriguez’s progress this season has been hampered by a series of injuries. He has managed just 382 minutes across 10 appearances (three starts) for Barça Atletic, though he has been impactful with three goals and three assists.