Barcelona consider Rodri Hernandez for first start in Valencia trip

Rodri Hernandez could make his first start for Barcelona in Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Valencia, after reaching the physical condition required to play from the beginning.

The 30-year-old midfielder is ready to be included in the starting line-up for the away fixture, according to Sport. However, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has not yet made a final decision on whether Rodri will begin the match.

Rodri officially joined Barcelona from Manchester City on 18 August. The World Cup winner has since appeared as a substitute in each of the Catalan club’s past two matches.

A starting role against Valencia would therefore represent Rodri’s first appearance in Barcelona’s starting XI since completing his move to the club. His involvement in the two previous games suggests he has already begun to feature in Flick’s plans, but the manager must still decide whether the midfielder is ready to take on a full role from kick-off.

Rodri’s availability provides Flick with another option in midfield as Barcelona prepare for their next La Liga fixture. The Spain international is reported to have now reached peak physical condition, increasing the possibility that he will be selected from the outset rather than introduced during the game.

The final decision remains with Flick, with the Barcelona boss yet to confirm whether Rodri will be trusted to start. Until then, the midfielder’s potential inclusion in the line-up remains one of the main selection questions surrounding the fixture.

Barcelona’s match against Valencia will take place away from home on Sunday, 6 September. Kick-off is scheduled for 17:15 Moscow time.

Rodri’s move from Manchester City was formally completed on 18 August, and his two substitute appearances have so far marked the beginning of his Barcelona career. The Valencia match could now provide the next step, with the midfielder potentially making his full starting debut for the club.