Barcelona are set to begin their Copa del Rey campaign this midweek with a trip to face CD Guadalajara in the Round of 32.
The match presents a perfect opportunity for Hansi Flick to rotate his squad, resting key starters in defence like Alejandro Balde and Gerard Martin, who have accumulated significant minutes in recent weeks.
With rotations expected, the spotlight has fallen on the club’s younger talents, particularly Jofre Torrents.
Jofre Torrents released by Spain U19
The young left-back, who is currently with Barça Atlètic but works within the first-team dynamics, was a clear candidate to start or at least feature significantly against Guadalajara.
However, his availability was initially in doubt due to a call-up from the Spanish U19 national team for the SBS International Cup in Japan, which would have kept him away from December 15 to 21.
Diego Kochen, Eder Aller, Jofre Torrents and Xavi Espart of FC Barcelona
Jofre Torrents could start against CD Guadalajara. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
However, in a major boost for Barcelona, Jofre has been officially released from the squad by coach Paco Gallardo, clearing the path for him to play on Tuesday, reports Mundo Deportivo.
The defender, who already made his official debut under Flick in a La Liga match against Mallorca in August, trained with the seniors on Sunday after being on the bench against Osasuna.
Jofre isn’t the only beneficiary. Juan Hernandez, the 18-year-old attacking midfielder from Teruel, has also been dropped from the U19 list.
Having previously been included in Flick’s matchday squads, it is interpreted that he, too, could receive an opportunity against Guadalajara.
In the meantime, Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski is doubtful heading into the Copa Del Rey match, whereas Frenkie de Jong is expected to receive a start.