Gabriel Jesus set for first Barcelona start against Getafe
Gabriel Jesus is set for his first Barcelona start when Getafe visit the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium on Saturday, with Hansi Flick ready to place the Brazilian at the centre of an altered forward line. Raphinha’s absence has opened the door for Jesus to lead the attack in the 6.30pm CEST fixture.
Jesus handed opportunity after fitness build-up
Flick believes the forward has used the past three weeks effectively, improving his physical condition while taking on the tactical demands of Barcelona’s system. The head coach indicated that Jesus is ready to begin rather than be introduced from the bench.
“The plan is for him to start,” Flick said. “He has made a lot of progress, suits the way we play and is ready.”
Jesus will be looking to establish himself quickly during a demanding stretch for Barcelona, who face five matches across league and European competition. With Raphinha unavailable, his movement and ability to occupy the central attacking role will be particularly significant against Getafe.
Goalkeeper decision and De Jong return plan
Flick is also expected to select Joan Garcia in goal, ahead of Dominik Livakovic and Wojciech Szczesny. The coach said Garcia’s current form has earned him the opportunity to start.
“Joan is in very good condition and I believe he can start,” Flick said.
Frenkie de Jong will not be involved against Getafe, although Barcelona are targeting the following match against Betis for his return. Flick said the midfielder is no longer suffering pain and can complete the required work, but still needs additional time before being cleared for action.
Timeline of Barcelona’s immediate selection picture
- Jesus used a three-week period to improve his fitness and learn Flick’s tactical requirements.
- Raphinha was ruled out, creating a vacancy at the head of Barcelona’s attack.
- Flick signalled that Jesus will begin against Getafe on Saturday.
- Joan Garcia is expected to take the goalkeeper’s place.
- De Jong remains unavailable for Getafe, with Betis identified as the intended return fixture.
Midfield depth could shape the October schedule
Barcelona’s upcoming run will test the flexibility of the squad, and Flick has pointed to internal options capable of covering defensive positions. De Jong has worked as a centre-back in training and remains a possible solution there once he returns.
Marc Bernal has also been used in several roles. Flick described the young player as capable of operating in different positions and left open the possibility of using him in defence.
The manager also welcomed the competition within his group, highlighting La Masia graduate Xavi Espart after his contract extension. Espart is competing with Joao Cancelo, and Flick expects his available players to be needed as fixtures accumulate.
Key takeaways
- Gabriel Jesus is in contention to make his first Barcelona start against Getafe.
- The Brazilian is expected to play centrally because Raphinha is unavailable.
- Joan Garcia is poised to start in goal ahead of Livakovic and Szczesny.
- De Jong is nearing fitness but is being held back with Betis the planned target for his comeback.
- Flick sees De Jong and Marc Bernal as potential defensive alternatives during a five-match run.
