Barcelona's tour of Asia is ending with more than one headache for Hansi Flick. The team arrived in Seoul eager to show its best version. However, the last training session in South Korea left several people worried.
This Sunday, at the Paju National Football Center, two key players had to leave practice due to physical discomfort: Iñigo Martínez and Fermín López.
Iñigo Martínez and Fermín López, out of action
The absences of both footballers weren't part of the initial plan. While Ferran Torres had already shown signs of fatigue the previous day, this time it was Iñigo and Fermín who couldn't complete training. Fermín López suffered a blow to his knee that prevented him from continuing, and center-back Iñigo Martínez is dealing with muscle fatigue that, according to the coaching staff's reports, is concerning.
Although neither has a serious injury, the club's message is clear: maximum caution. Flick doesn't want to risk his players in a friendly match, with the priority to prevent any discomfort from turning into a bigger problem for the upcoming season.
Tension and concern in the locker room
These kinds of situations don't go unnoticed. Tension is starting to be felt in the locker room. Not only because of the physical discomfort, but also due to the uncertainty these absences create in the team's tactical setup.
Iñigo Martínez, with his experience and leadership in defense, and Fermín López, with his promising performance in midfield, are important pieces for Flick.
The German coach has rethought the line-up for the last friendly match against Daegu FC. The absence of both could disrupt the team's rhythm and cohesion. Barça wants to start the season with confidence and without setbacks.
A match to end the tour with doubts
The match against Daegu FC was supposed to be the perfect opportunity to end this Asian tour with good feelings. However, the shadow of these injuries takes some shine off the event. The available players will have to be ready to take on greater responsibility and keep the competitive level high.
Meanwhile, Flick isn't showing alarm, but he is firm in his decision not to take risks. The priority is for Barcelona to arrive in optimal condition for its official commitments, without the friendlies taking a toll.