According to a report by Flashscore on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick faced questions over his tactical decisions after his team went into halftime trailing Paris Saint Germain 1-0 in their UEFA Champions League clash at the Parc des Princes. Désiré Doué scored in the 38th minute after Lamine Yamal lost possession in a dangerous area, allowing PSG to take the lead.

One of Flick’s most debated decisions was leaving Rodri out of the starting lineup. The experienced midfielder was named among the substitutes, while Marc Bernal started alongside Pedri and Dani Olmo in midfield.

Although resting Rodri may have been part of Flick’s plans to manage the demanding schedule, facing the reigning European champions required experience and defensive stability.

Rodri could have provided extra protection in front of Barcelona’s defence while helping the team maintain possession under PSG’s intense pressing. His ability to intercept passes, read the game and control the tempo might have helped Barcelona handle the pressure more effectively.

His absence was not directly responsible for Doué’s goal, but leaving such an experienced midfielder on the bench was a significant gamble in a match of this importance.

Flick also placed his trust in young players for the difficult European encounter. Bernal and Xavi Espart were included in the starting lineup despite Barcelona missing defenders Jules Koundé and Eric García.

The youngsters had an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities, but PSG’s technical quality and attacking threat made the contest particularly demanding.

Another concern was Barcelona’s aggressive approach. Flick wanted his team to dominate possession and push forward, but losing the ball in advanced positions left them vulnerable to PSG’s counterattacks. Greater protection from midfield was important against opponents capable of exploiting those spaces.

The decisive moment came when Yamal lost possession inside Barcelona’s half. Doué took advantage of the situation, collected the ball outside the penalty area and fired it into the net in the 38th minute.

Barcelona also suffered a setback when Dani Olmo was forced off with an injury during the first half. The midfielder had been expected to provide creativity and connect the midfield with the attack. His departure disrupted Flick’s plans, forcing him to introduce Fermín López earlier than expected.

Despite creating opportunities, Barcelona struggled to turn their attacking efforts into goals as PSG gradually gained control of the contest.

Ultimately, leaving Rodri on the bench was one of Flick’s biggest tactical decisions before halftime. The choice may have been influenced by fitness concerns and the upcoming El Clásico against Real Madrid, but Barcelona needed greater stability against a dangerous PSG side.