Barcelona new signing Rodri likely to miss La Liga opener; Bernal to start

Published Aug 22, 09:20 AM UTC

Spanish media reports that Barcelona's new signing Rodri is likely to miss the team's La Liga opener against Elche due to an individualized training regimen for fitness recovery. Marc Bernal, who impressed in preseason, is expected to continue as the starting defensive midfielder. Gavi and Pedri are gradually returning to training and may be on the bench. Coach Hansi Flick may retain the midfield trio of Bernal, Xavi Espart, and Fermín López, though Dani Olmo is also a candidate. João Cancelo has completed registration and will be available. Barcelona has resolved registration issues for all new signings and Christensen's renewed contract, except for young player Jessi Bisiwu. The long-awaited new center forward will not appear, as the transfer of Álvarez is close to falling through, with Lautaro Martínez as the main alternative.