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Ansu Fati returned to Barcelona’s starting lineup in their La Liga match against Mallorca. This was his first start for the team since October 2024. Coach Hansi Flick’s decision surprised fans and experts as Barcelona rotates players ahead of an important part of the season.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Fati has not played much this season and was named in the starting XI for the second time in La Liga. His last league start was on October 20th against Sevilla, a match Barcelona won 5-1. Since then, he played only 191 minutes in 9 games, mostly as a substitute. Before the match against Mallorca, coach Flick rotated the squad, likely to rest main players for the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid. Other less regular starters like Hector Fort also got a chance in the starting lineup.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
This La Liga match against Mallorca is important for Barcelona. The team is first in La Liga with 7 points difference to second place Real Madrid who have a game in hand. Fati’s limited playing time has been discussed this season; he faced injury issues and competition for spots. With the coach managing players’ fitness for the cup final, Fati and other fringe players have a chance to show their worth in key league matches. Mallorca is in the lower half of the table but is fighting to avoid relegation as the season nears its end.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR BARÇA AND FATI?
After the Mallorca game, Barcelona will focus on the Copa del Rey final against rivals Real Madrid, with the chance to win a major trophy. Fati’s performance against Mallorca could impact his chances of playing in the final and the remaining league games. Barcelona’s next La Liga opponent after the cup final is Girona, a direct opponent in the race for second place. Fati, who is still only 22, hopes that this rare start means more trust from the coaching staff and the opportunity to play a bigger role as Barcelona aim to finish the season strong in both the league and cup competitions.
