Validation and showcase of Dani Olmo: the silent 'crack'

The second leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 against Benfica (3-1) was particularly special for Dani Olmo. The player from Terrassa had been the one sacrificed last week due to the early expulsion of Pau Cubarsí (who left his place on the field to Ronald Araujo in the 22nd minute), and this Tuesday, Hansi Flick did not hesitate to include him again in his XI to secure a place in the quarter-finals.

Dani was also set to be a starter on Saturday against Osasuna, a match that unfortunately had to be postponed due to the passing of doctor Carles Miñarro. On Tuesday, the '20' was very involved from the start, behind the attacking trio and ahead of Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, who from the outset took charge of providing balance and outlet for the team. Although he did not score or assist, the 26-year-old player looked very good in the 70 minutes he was on the field.

In total, Olmo completed 34 of 39 passes (87%), with one chance created and two shots off target. In individual duels, he had a balanced luck in 4 attempts, but his main contribution was related to high pressing. Just like Pedri, who repeated as MVP of the match, the player from Terrassa was key in recovering balls (10), one less than the player from Tegueste (11).

Dani Olmo takes a step forward for a starting position

For Dani, his first season back in Barcelona has not been easy. A couple of injuries forced him to miss 10 matches at two key moments, just when it seemed he was winning the individual duel against Fermín López and Gavi for a spot in the XI. 2025 began with the 'soap opera' related to his registration and that of Pau Víctor, but after a month where he was only a starter in the Cup against Betis (5-1), he regained prominence with a notable second half in La Liga against Las Palmas (0-2).

In this sense, Olmo seems ready to face the final stretch taking on a starring role, having known how to wait for his moment to shine. Flick values his ability to make a difference in the opponent's area with his usual striking and vision of the game. Not for nothing, he has 7 goals and 5 assists in 26 matches (1,313 minutes), being the most decisive outfield player on the team, behind the attacking trio and Ferran Torres. Will the '20' be able to take the definitive step towards a starting position?