Barcelona Coach Confirms Rodri Return For El Clasico

Rodri needed rest before Real Madrid clash, says Flick

Barcelona suffered their first defeat of the season in a 4-2 loss to PSG, with Hansi Flick admitting he rested Rodri with an eye on Sunday's Clasico.

Flick defends Rodri decision after Barcelona's first defeat...

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick says Rodri will return to the starting XI for Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid after being rested for kick-off in the Champions League defeat away to Paris Saint-Germain.

“Yes, but you know Rodri played a lot of minutes with the national team and also the last games with us,” Flick told reporters after Barcelona's 4-2 loss in Paris on Tuesday.

“I spoke with him this morning and I told him that we made this decision, and Marc Bernal started instead. For me, it was a good solution what we did and hopefully he is fresh on Sunday,” he added.

Rodri was introduced after an hour in Paris as Barcelona's perfect record this season came to an end.

The Catalans twice came from behind, with Xavi Espart and Lamine Yamal cancelling out goals from Desire Doue and Lucas Hernandez for the hosts.

Yamal levelled at 2-2 in the 79th minute, but Vitinha restored PSG's lead two minutes later before Fabian Ruiz wrapped up the win for the reigning European champions.

“I think it was a fantastic game from both teams but we made too many mistakes, especially in possession,” Flick said.

“But I also saw a lot of good things. For me it was a great test for us and you also saw today what errors we have to improve to make things better.

“We have to learn from this game. Today, in October, you cannot win titles. You win the Champions League in June.”

Flick added that the upcoming Clasico, which gives Barca the opportunity to move nine points clear of Madrid in LaLiga, heavily influenced his selection.

Match Statistics