Barcelona faces a significant challenge as Lamine Yamal is set to miss between three to four weeks due to an ankle sprain, an injury that echoes one he sustained earlier this season. The club is proceeding with caution in his recovery, and while his absence is confirmed for the upcoming La Liga match against Atlético Madrid and the Copa del Rey fixture against Barbastro in January, his availability for the Spanish Super Cup remains in doubt.

Yamal’s absence creates a void that will be tough to fill. The young forward has been one of the most dynamic players in the squad, known for his ability to destabilize opposition defenses. Hansi Flick, however, must find solutions to ensure his team maintains its balance without one of its key players. Barcelona has several options to explore, ranging from natural replacements to tactical adjustments.

The most logical move is to opt for Ferran Torres, who is a natural forward like Yamal and is used to playing on the right wing. While Flick did not give Torres continuity after his standout performance against Dortmund, the striker has been in good form, scoring three goals in his last five outings. Torres, who has also played centrally under Flick, is fully capable of taking up a winger’s role, where his intensity and commitment would be valuable assets.

Alternatively, Raphinha and Dani Olmo could shift to the right wing, though this is not seen as the optimal solution. Raphinha, who has thrived on the left this season, may find the right wing less comfortable, but his versatility would allow him to adapt. Meanwhile, Olmo, who prefers to operate in central areas, would likely be more effective there. If Raphinha is moved, Barcelona has other options for the left, with Fermín, Gavi, Ansu Fati (once he returns), and Pau Víctor all capable of playing there.

Another option is to deploy Fermín on the right wing, though his previous attempt in the Real Sociedad match was unsuccessful. The El Campillo native has shown flexibility, able to play both on the wings and in the attacking midfield, but he is more comfortable on the left side. Similarly, Gavi has been used as a false left-winger, especially in a 4-4-2 setup, and could provide more midfield stability. If Gavi is chosen, further positional changes would likely be necessary.

While Pablo Torre and Pau Víctor are technically available, they are unlikely to be starting options, as they have played minimal roles under Flick. Torre has shown promise when given the opportunity, but has not been a regular feature. Pau Víctor, too, has been used as a late-game substitute when situations are difficult.

With Yamal sidelined, Barcelona’s tactical setup for the Atlético Madrid match will require careful thought, with Flick needing to balance maintaining fluidity in attack while filling the gap left by one of the squad’s most exciting young talents.