Barcelona coach Hans Flick faces a clear challenge in determining the identity of the main pivot player during the crucial phase of the season, amidst competition between Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, and Marc Bernal for this role, according to the Spanish newspaper 'Sport'.

Flick is known for his offensive approach influenced by Cruyff's philosophy, but his team tends to play at a fast pace instead of building attacks gradually, where they impose their control over matches but seek to resolve them at an accelerated pace. The German coach admitted, after winning the league title in May, his desire to develop this style by enhancing control over the game and achieving greater defensive balance.

Although the team attempted to achieve this goal at certain times, it did not succeed in establishing it consistently, as it sometimes relied on a more withdrawn defense line and involved young players like Marc Bernal, but continued to suffer from some fragility.

The pivot position remains the cornerstone of Barcelona's identity, as was the case with prominent names like Pep Guardiola and Sergio Busquets. However, the current team does not have a player with the same traditional characteristics, opening the door for competition among more than one option within the lineup.

In this context, the report clarified that Gavi is not considered a traditional pivot player but rather closer to an advanced midfielder, indicating that Flick relies on a style that does not focus on having a traditional pivot but on midfielders supporting Pedri in managing the game, adding that de Jong seems the most prominent option at the moment.

Barcelona relies heavily on Pedri, who plays a pivotal role in the midfield, as choosing his partner will determine the overall performance of the team. So far, de Jong is the coach's preferred choice, especially after renewing his contract at his direct request, despite sitting on the bench during some periods of defensive decline, where Eric Garcia was relied upon.

Despite being affected by injury recently, Flick remains committed to the Dutch player, confirming on several occasions that his presence gives the team greater control and helps Pedri deliver his best performances, emphasizing the importance of the duo in organizing the rhythm of play and controlling the course of matches.

Analyst Mark Maiola believes that Flick will continue to rely on de Jong alongside Pedri, especially with his improved physical condition, but he also pointed to the potential success of the Pedri-Marc Bernal duo, considering that their harmony could be very beneficial for the team in the short term.

He also stressed the importance of strengthening the midfield in the coming period by allocating part of the recruitment budget to support this position, ensuring adequate support for Pedri.

Marc Bernal is considered one of the most prominent rising names, despite being affected by a severe injury last season that delayed his appearance, before benefiting from de Jong's injury to get his chance and prove himself in important matches, including European and decisive local encounters.

Despite being compared to Sergio Busquets, Bernal has different characteristics, possessing a clear offensive tendency and the ability to reach the goal, but he still needs to develop physically and defensively, especially in terms of covering spaces and retreating.

In light of these data, de Jong remains the first choice so far, with calls to give Gavi and Bernal opportunities in the remainder of the season to evaluate their capabilities further, as Flick seeks to reach the perfect combination that ensures balance between attack and defense.