Barcelona manager, Hansi Flick, has addressed the media, offering crucial updates on the fitness of key players Iñigo Martínez and Dani Olmo ahead of their La Liga match against Alavés. The game, scheduled for Sunday, February 2nd, at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, will see the Barcelona rugby section celebrate their centenary.
Martínez Returns, Olmo Needs More Time
Flick confirmed that Iñigo Martínez is back in contention after recovering from a recent hamstring injury. “Iñigo is available again, we are very happy that he can return” Flick stated. This is a welcome boost for the team, who have missed the defender’s presence in the backline. Martínez had been sidelined since picking up the injury in the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid in mid-January, where he had to be subbed off early in the match.
However, the news isn’t as positive for Dani Olmo. The midfielder is still recovering from a calf injury and will require more time before returning to full fitness. “It’s not easy for the players, but that is the calendar, it is set for everyone. We are doing well. Iñigo is available again, Dani needs a bit more time,” Flick explained. Olmo has missed several matches due to this issue, and will not be risked for the Alavés game.
Olmo’s Recent Injury Struggles
Dani Olmo has had a history of injuries, and has missed a substantial number of games due to various physical setbacks. In the 2023/24 season, he missed 29 games due to injuries. In the 2022/23 season, he was absent for 20 matches, and in 2021/22, he missed approximately 19 games. His recent calf injury, sustained in a match against Getafe, has kept him out of action since late January. Flick has not yet given a definite date for his return, stating that they are monitoring his progress and will not rush him back to the field before he is fully ready.
Martínez’s Return and Importance
Iñigo Martínez‘s return is timely for Barcelona as the team looks to maintain a solid defensive record. The defender had started in all 27 of his appearances for the club this season before his injury, demonstrating his importance to Hansi Flick’s plans. He has made over 350 appearances in La Liga across his career, and brings experience and leadership to the team. The club confirmed the hamstring injury on January 14th, stating that he would be out for around four weeks.
Barcelona’s Match Against Alavés
The match against Alavés is crucial for Barcelona, who are currently in third place in La Liga. The team is looking to close the gap on league leaders Real Madrid, who currently hold a 7-point advantage. Flick has emphasized the importance of winning consecutive games to put pressure on their rivals. The game will be played at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, with kick-off scheduled for 2:00 PM CET. In addition to the match itself, the club will have several events taking place to celebrate the club’s motto of being “More than a Club”. The rugby team will celebrate their 100th anniversary and a literary project will also be celebrated. The club will also be recognizing the start of the Year of the Snake, which began on January 29th.
Goalkeeper Situation
Hansi Flick also addressed the goalkeeping situation, stating that Wojciech Szczęsny is currently the number one choice. This means that Iñaki Peña will remain on the bench.
Key Match Details:
- Teams: FC Barcelona vs Deportivo Alavés
- Competition: La Liga
- Matchday: 22
- Date: Sunday, February 2nd, 2025
- Time: 2:00 PM CET (1:00 PM UTC)
- Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona
Barcelona fans will be hoping for a strong performance as they seek to continue their climb up the La Liga standings. The return of Iñigo Martínez is a positive development, although the continued absence of Dani Olmo is a setback for the team.
