Hansi Flick: Frenkie de Jong Ready to Start for Barcelona

Barcelona's head coach, Hansi Flick, has suggested that midfielder Frenkie de Jong is available to feature from the start in the upcoming Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid. De Jong has recently made his return to the pitch after a six-week layoff due to a muscle tear sustained in late February.

In his pre-match remarks, Flick emphasized the need for his team to adopt an aggressive attacking approach while maintaining a solid defensive structure. The German manager also cautioned his squad about the intimidating atmosphere they are likely to encounter at the Metropolitano stadium.

"The atmosphere in the stadium will be fantastic. We need a strong and stable defence, but also be brave in the offence; we have to press, we have to go forward. Use every chance. It’s the difference between us when you see the last game," Flick stated.

"Frenkie de Jong Could Start" – Hansi Flick

De Jong made a brief appearance in the final 10 minutes of the Catalan derby against Espanyol, even contributing an assist for Marcus Rashford in the closing moments of their 4-1 victory. Flick confirmed that de Jong is physically prepared to begin the match.

"With Frenkie, it's much better than Marc Bernal. It's difficult for him. Frenkie can also start. We'll see what I decide. We'll see later," Flick commented.

A key consideration for Barcelona's starting lineup revolves around who will partner Pedri Gonzalez in midfield. With Eric Garcia expected to move to defense to cover for the suspended Pau Cubarsi, an opening arises for either de Jong or Gavi. Marc Casado has seen limited selection in significant matches recently.

"Of course Gavi can play. Gavi is a player who gives everything for this team, for the club. On the pitch, he is not afraid of anything, and this is important. We'll see tomorrow where he plays, when; we have time, and we'll see this evening," Flick added.

Praise for Lamine Yamal

A substantial portion of Barcelona's offensive potential rests on the young shoulders of forward Lamine Yamal, who has been in exceptional form lately.

"Lamine has performed really well in the last games. He has to do these things where he is the best in the world in one-on-one situations, dribbling. We also have to give him the option to pass. We have to play as one unit; this is important. The collective, not the individual. We have many players with huge quality, but so do Atletico. Last time I said games are often decided by momentum, and hopefully, it's on our side."

When asked about the pressure he faces, Lamine Yamal, prior to Flick's press conference, described it as a positive attribute rather than a burden. The 18-year-old is anticipated to form the front three alongside Marcus Rashford and either Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, or Ferran Torres.