Warning ahead of tonight’s match against Real Valladolid… Hansi Flick is deeply concerned after reports suggest that a key trio may miss the highly anticipated Clásico against Real Madrid in La Liga!

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has a lot to think about ahead of tonight’s La Liga encounter with already-relegated Real Valladolid. On paper, it should be a straightforward match for the Catalan giants. But the bigger picture—particularly the looming El Clásico showdown with Real Madrid and the second leg of the Champions League semi-final—makes this fixture far more complicated than it seems.

Just days after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Inter Milan at the Giuseppe Meazza, which left the semifinal tie wide open, Barcelona must navigate a potential trap against Valladolid. Flick is expected to rotate heavily, but even with changes, the match holds serious implications, especially regarding player availability for Sunday’s Clásico at the Montjuïc.

According to reports from El Nacional, Barcelona’s coaching staff are increasingly worried about three players in particular: Raphinha, Iñigo Martínez, and Gavi. Each of them is one booking away from suspension, and any yellow card against Valladolid would rule them out of one of the most important matches of the season—El Clásico.

Flick has expressed his concerns internally, as this trio represents crucial tactical components for the upcoming clash against Real Madrid. Gavi brings energy and dynamism to the midfield, Raphinha offers pace and creativity on the flanks, while Martínez has added steel and leadership to a backline that has looked vulnerable at times this season.

The decision to risk them tonight could prove costly. Raphinha and Martínez, according to early training reports, are both dealing with minor physical issues and might be left out of the squad entirely as a precaution. Gavi, on the other hand, could feature in the starting XI due to his limited minutes against Inter.

Yet Flick knows that Gavi’s aggressive playing style and emotional involvement in games make him a yellow card magnet. The 19-year-old has already received several cautions this season and often walks a disciplinary tightrope. Asking him to play conservatively might go against his natural instincts.

There is also the added pressure of maintaining momentum. Barcelona cannot afford to slip up against Valladolid, even if their opponents have already been relegated and are without a win in their last 14 matches. Anything less than three points would be unacceptable at this stage, especially with the La Liga title race still technically open.

At the same time, Flick is under enormous pressure to manage his squad wisely. A full-strength team would make short work of Valladolid, but risking injuries or suspensions could backfire massively in the days to come. The second leg against Inter is only a few days away, and El Clásico—historically the most intense fixture in Spanish football—requires Barcelona’s best XI.

One silver lining for Barcelona is the return of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, who is expected to be named in the squad after recovering from a long-term knee injury that kept him out for 222 days. His experience and leadership will be invaluable during this critical stretch of the season.

Fans and analysts alike are closely watching Flick’s tactical decisions. Will he use a mix of reserve players and trusted veterans to get the job done? Or will he prioritize rhythm and consistency by starting key players despite the risks?

This kind of balancing act is something Barcelona has struggled with in the past. Rotating too heavily has sometimes led to dropped points, but a lack of rotation has led to burnout or injury during crucial fixtures. Flick’s managerial acumen will be truly tested in the coming week.

Moreover, the players themselves are reportedly well aware of what’s at stake. Gavi, in particular, is said to be eager to feature in El Clásico, knowing how much these games mean to fans and to the club’s history. He has been reminded by coaching staff to avoid unnecessary fouls or emotional reactions.

There’s also the psychological aspect to consider. If Barcelona does drop points against Valladolid, it could dent their confidence ahead of the two massive matches. Winning tonight is not just about La Liga points; it’s about entering the next battles with the right mindset and morale.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid are reportedly watching closely. Carlo Ancelotti’s men are hoping to capitalize on any signs of fatigue or disarray in their arch-rivals. Any slip from Barcelona—especially the potential absence of three starters—would be a significant boost for Los Blancos heading into the Clásico.

In conclusion, what should have been a routine La Liga match has suddenly become a high-stakes affair for Hansi Flick and his players. The risk of suspension for Raphinha, Martínez, and Gavi adds a complex layer of strategy to the team selection tonight. Flick’s decisions over the next 90 minutes could very well determine the success of Barcelona’s entire season.

Fans will be hoping that the team can stay focused, avoid cards, and secure a win with minimal damage. But with so much riding on the next seven days, every moment—every tackle, every challenge—carries weight. The path to glory is narrow, and Barcelona must walk it carefully.