Three major issues Hansi Flick must solve at Barcelona after the international break

Three significant challenges await Hansi Flick as he prepares Barcelona for the international break. The team has had an impressive start to the season, winning all eight matches and leading Real Madrid by six points. Flick's depth has improved compared to last season, but this comes with a problem: several key players are now fighting for minutes.

One of the most pressing situations is at right-back, where Eric Garcia has edged out Jules Kounde in Flick's plans. Kounde has only played 261 minutes across the first eight games, while Garcia has accumulated 469. Kounde made a full 90-minute appearance against Turkey during the international break, which could be crucial in winning back his place. However, Garcia's fitness needs to be assessed, and should either Kounde or Garcia miss time, Kounde will have to take advantage.

Another tricky issue involves midfielder Gavi, who has only played 81 minutes so far due to injury problems. Barcelona now have several midfield options, making it difficult for Gavi to secure his starting position. Alejandro Balde, the left-back, has had even fewer minutes, only 12 this season. His future was uncertain during the summer, but he has chosen to compete for his place alongside Xavi Espart and Joao Cancelo.

If all three players improve their performances, it could benefit Barcelona, but Balde would still be considered Flick's third-choice option.

The return of Frenkie de Jong could create another selection dilemma for Flick. De Jong has been absent due to an injury, and his absence has allowed Barcelona to gain momentum without him. His eventual comeback will be more complex than simply adding another player to the squad, as the club's midfield has changed significantly around him.

De Jong is now one of Barcelona's most recognizable players, but the team's midfield lineup has evolved, with the addition of Rodri and the loss of De Jong's captaincy. Flick will need to determine De Jong's role within the new midfield structure once he is fit again.