We have a lot of quality and options – Hansi Flick talks Barcelona’s squad depth after Frenkie de Jong injury

Barcelona will face the next six weeks without midfield metronome Frenkie de Jong after the club confirmed on Thursday that the Dutch international suffered a hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out through the March international break. The setback arrives at a pivotal juncture, with the Blaugrana set to contest both legs of their Champions League Round of 16 tie against Newcastle while also navigating a congested domestic calendar.

Despite losing one of his most reliable performers, head coach Hansi Flick struck an optimistic tone during Friday’s press conference, insisting the squad possesses both the talent and tactical flexibility to absorb the blow. “We don’t like it when a player can’t play, especially a player of Frenkie’s quality,” Flick acknowledged. “It’s not an easy time, but it also gives us the opportunity for other players to play. I focus on the positive.”

The German tactician emphasized that squad rotation is an inevitable part of a long season and believes the situation offers a platform for fringe players to cement starting roles. “All teams have problems, and that’s what we have to manage. We have a lot of quality in the squad and various options to play with. I see it as other players getting opportunities; we’re focusing on what we do have available.”

Pedri’s return from injury has been labeled “absolutely massive” by the coaching staff, with the 21-year-old now shouldering added creative responsibility in De Jong’s absence. The Canary Islander’s fitness will be carefully monitored as Barcelona attempt to replicate the midfield balance previously provided by the De Jong-Pedri partnership.

Candidates to fill the void include La Masia graduates Marc Bernal and Marc Casadó, while versatile defender Eric Garcia is also expected to receive minutes in a deeper midfield role. With fixtures looming in La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Europe, February promises to be a defining month for both the club and the emerging talents now thrust into the spotlight.

Flick, who has reflected positively on life in Catalunya since taking charge, maintains that the depth of his roster will be a decisive factor as Barcelona chase silverware on multiple fronts.