FC Barcelona

Lost opportunity for Olmo and Flick's message to Fermín

Published New:1/09/2025 - 00:26h

Updated New:1/09/2025 - 02:11h

Dani Olmo had a discreet participation in 63 minutes in the draw between Rayo and Barça. And Flick continues to count on Fermín

Dani Olmo was one of the less prominent figures in FC Barcelona's commitment against Rayo Vallecano (1-1). The '20' started for the first time this season, occupying the attacking midfield position behind the offensive trident formed by Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Ferran Torres. However, he was not 'sharp' in Vallecas.

The Terrassa native took three shots, one of which was on target and saved by goalkeeper Augusto Batalla. On the other hand, he had two turnovers and missed what looked like a clear goal before halftime. Olmo capitalized on a cross from the left by Jules Koundé, but shot high despite having time and space to adjust his shot.

Defensively, he made 3 recoveries and 1 clearance. On the other hand, he did not win a single ground duel out of 4 possible. In addition, he had a pass accuracy of 82% (18 out of 22 possible) and committed one foul during the 62 minutes he was on the field.

Dani Olmo disappointed in the stadium of his LaLiga debut

Hansi Flick gave Dani Olmo the opportunity to start for the first time this season, as in previous games against Mallorca and Levante, he came on as a substitute.

On the first matchday, he replaced Fermín López at the end of the first half in Son Moix, while on the second matchday he came on for Marcus Rashford. In both matches, he had left a very good impression, being important in Valencia for the comeback (2-3).

On this occasion, the '20' was not a decisive player in a match where Joan García stood out for his performances in goal. Olmo was erratic in finishing and failed to link up with Lamine and Raphinha. Finally, Flick opted to bring on Fermín half an hour from the end, looking for a reaction from a Barça team that was outplayed for long stretches in the second half against Rayo.

In that sense, the '20' could not shine again in the stadium where, a year ago, he debuted in a Barça shirt. Then he was the MVP of the match, with a key goal and assist to orchestrate the comeback.

Hansi Flick's message to Fermín López after Rayo-Barça

Fermín López charla con jugadores del Rayo tras el empate en Vallecas (1-1)

Fermín López chats with Rayo players after the 1-1 draw in Vallecas

The Huelva native, however, was also not inspired in Vallecas. However, despite rumors about his possible move to the Premier League, the German coach maintains his full confidence in him.

The '16' culé did not take any shots on goal. He had 67% pass accuracy (4 out of 6 possible), with no chances created, although he completed a couple of dribbles. In the post-match press conference, Hansi Flick again referred to the Huelva native's future.

"Today we have to talk about the team and not the players. The most important thing for me is that when the market closes everyone is 100% committed. It's important that there are no egos, this kills the chances of success," argued the coach.

A message that makes clear his intention to count on the entire group and try to get the best out of each of his players. That is, as long as the players are focused and committed to doing their job.

Neither Fermín nor Olmo met expectations in the attacking midfield position. For this reason, Flick could consider using Raphinha in that position, as he did in the match against Levante, and include Marcus Rashford on the left wing. During the break, the coaching staff will have enough time to work on the available alternatives.