19-year-old Barcelona Atletic winger could end up starting against Real Valladolid – Report | OneFootball

The upcoming game against Real Valladolid promises a lot of things from Barcelona. From determination to motivation, the Catalan giants are expected to play this game with as much commitment as any other. However, this particular game also promises rotations from Barcelona.

In his recent press conference, Hansi Flick confirmed that his players will need to be rested in order to be ready for the game against Inter Milan. That particular match will take place on the back of a thrilling 3-3 draw at the Montjuic Stadium, so there is a lot at stake there.

Thus, the Barcelona coaching staff will have to make use of the rotational players in the squad to field a starting eleven that is primarily full of players that do not typically start. From Ansu Fati to Hector Fort, there is still a lot of quality that can be put on the field for this game.

Dani Rodriguez could end up getting a surprise start

However, with an untimely injury to Pablo Torre and Flick’s decision to bench most of his regular starters, there are certain limitations in terms of the players that can be fielded. Coincidentally, however, this could potentially play out in a favorable way for a certain 19-year-old youth player.

Dani Rodriguez celebrates after scoring for Barcelona in the UEFA Youth League. (Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

As per a recent update from SPORT, Barcelona Atletic winger Dani Rodriguez could even end up starting this game for the first-team. Beyond just being included in the official squad list for this La Liga encounter, this match could end up becoming much more significant for him.

A debut already seemed likely

Previously, it was reported that Hansi Flick intends to hand the winger his first-team debut in this game. However, those reports suggested that the debut would come in the form of a few minutes for the player off the bench so that Dani Rodriguez can showcase his talents in a cameo of sorts, perhaps because of his various injuries this season that have greatly limited his minutes.

Now, however, this recent update suggests something quite surreal. Making his first team debut as a starter would be quite the special occasion, especially considering just how uncommon it is for youth players to make their debut in this fashion.

Still, considering the various injuries and complications that have to be taken into account, there might be concrete truth in this reported possibility. Only time will tell what ends up happening, but it would certainly be a bold move from Hansi Flick and a special opportunity for young Dani Rodriguez.