FC Barcelona v Al Ahly SC - Joan Gamper Trophy
Rodri Hernandez defensive midfield of Barcelona and Spain during the Joan Gamper Trophy between FC Barcelona and Al Ahly SC at Spotify Camp Nou on August 19, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Gill Clark Gill Clark is the site manager of Barca Blaugranes and joined in 2017. She has worked in sports media as a writer and editor for the best part of two decades and has been in love with the beautiful game for as long as she can remember.
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has confirmed the club are planning on giving Rodri his debut for the club in Thursday’s La Liga game against Athletic Club.
Rodri has signed from Manchester City and has been training with his new team-mates but did not feature in the opening win over Elche.
Flick told his pre-match press conference that “the plan is for him to play a few minutes” on Thursday night at Camp Nou.
He went on to add: “We also have Marc Bernal in that position. Rodri has more experience; he’s the clear leader. Together with Pedri, he’ll allow us to control the ball and the opponent. That’s very important. We lost possession against Elche. Rodri is one of the best. We’ll enjoy having them together.”
One player who will not feature against the Basque side is Gavi. The midfielder suffered a minor knee injury against Elche and is set for a brief spell on the sidelines.
Flick told reporters: “He’s fine, much better than after the game. We have to wait a week for him to come back.”
Barcelona’s next game is on Monday at home to Rayo Vallecano in La Liga.