FC Barcelona faces its first challenge in the Champions League against Monaco this Thursday, and one of the biggest questions revolves around who will take Dani Olmo's place, as he will be sidelined due to a muscle injury in his hamstring. The Catalan forward, who had been key in Hansi Flick's lineup since joining the club, will be out for the next four to five weeks, forcing the coach to find alternatives for such an important match.

With several absences in the squad, especially in midfield, the German coach will have to make significant adjustments to the starting eleven. One of the most viable options to replace Olmo is Raphinha, who has already been used as an attacking midfielder this season. The Brazilian has shown his ability to adapt to different positions and could play a crucial role in the attack, leaving his usual role on the wing to help strengthen the team's playmaking abilities.

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Another option Flick could consider is moving Pedri forward to fill Olmo's position while keeping Marc Casadó as the defensive pivot. This alternative would give the team greater control and dynamism in the offensive area. However, there is also the possibility of Eric García stepping into the midfield, providing more defensive stability, allowing Pedri to focus more on creative tasks.

The return of Ansu Fati after overcoming a plantar fasciitis injury brings a glimmer of hope for Barcelona. Although he has not yet made his debut this season, the forward has been training at the same pace as his teammates and has received medical clearance. If Flick decides to bet on him, Ansu Fati could bring imbalance and speed from the start, joining the attack alongside Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal.

Barcelona's Champions League debut will be marked by these tactical decisions, and Flick will need to make the most of the resources he has available to compensate for the significant absences in the squad. Olmo's absence, along with other key players like Gavi and Frenkie de Jong, poses a challenge for the German coach, who will look to get the best out of his squad to kick off their European campaign on the right foot.