Coach HansiFlick has used 24 players in the season that began with FrenkiedeJong's debut against RealMadrid, but youth player BrianFariñas still does not appear in the starting eleven. Despite having been a revelation in the preseason and receiving the number 4 shirt, which became vacant after Araujo's departure, the 19-year-old has not had a single minute of play with the Barça first team.
Fariñas, who comes from the club's youth system and was signed after an agreement with Girona, where the club paid 1.5 million for 50% of his rights, has shown an attitude and progress that impressed Flick. The coach had considered leaving him for Girona when the operation was already well underway, but decided to keep him at the club after observing his performance in training with the first team. His versatility allows him to play both as a midfielder and as a winger, a position in which he surprised during the preseason.
Despite the absence of key players such as EricSanchez and Koundé, the coach has chosen not to include Fariñas in the squad for the home game against Alavés. The decision has become a topic of debate among fans and the player's entourage, who describe him as a professional with impeccable conduct. However, a lack of first-team opportunities has raised questions about Flick's vision for the young talent.
Barça has already used the three goalkeepers and Abdelkarim in several games, and the minutes of the other players have been distributed among the entire squad, leaving Fariñas without a leading role. With the arrival of Casadó and TommyMarqués, the club sought to strengthen the squad, but the young man has not managed to break the barrier to debut. The next matchday against Alavés will be crucial to decide if the coach will change his strategy and give the youth player the opportunity.
In summary, BrianFariñas' future in the Barça first team remains uncertain. His pre-season performance and positive attitude have been recognised, but Flick's decision not to include him in the upcoming match raises questions about his role in the season. The fans and the player himself hope that the next phase of the club will allow the youngster to prove his worth and gain the coach's trust.