Hansi Flick confirms Gabriel Jesus to start for Barcelona
Hansi Flick has confirmed that Gabriel Jesus is set to make his full debut for Barcelona against Getafe, while providing fitness updates on Frenkie de Jong.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Author: Diliff
Gabriel Jesus is set to make his first start for Barcelona when the Catalan side hosts Getafe at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium this Saturday. The Brazilian forward is expected to lead the line in the absence of the sidelined Raphinha.
Head coach Hansi Flick confirmed that the three-week international break provided the perfect opportunity for the striker to adjust to the team's tactical requirements and improve his fitness.
The idea is for him to start tomorrow. He has improved a lot and fits our style. He is doing very well, he is ready. Hansi Flick
Flick also addressed his defensive and goalkeeping plans, noting that Joan Garcia is in line to start in goal. Meanwhile, midfielder Frenkie de Jong remains unavailable for the weekend but is nearing a return to action.
The manager added that the plan is for De Jong to be involved in the following match against Betis. Addressing the club's defensive depth during a busy October, Flick highlighted that both De Jong and youngster Marc Bernal could be deployed as centre-backs if necessary.