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Barcelona coach Flick says Rodri was rested against PSG to keep him fresh for El Clasico

The 30-year-old came on after an hour of the Champions League game in Paris, as Barcelona’s perfect record this season came to an end.

By Sportstar News Desk · Sportstar

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 5:40 AM

Key Things to Know

Hansi Flick confirmed Rodri was rested against PSG to keep him fresh for El Clasico.
PSG defeated Barcelona 4-2 in their UEFA Champions League clash in Paris.
Marc Bernal started in midfield in place of the 30-year-old Spaniard.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick confirmed that midfielder Rodri was rested during their UEFA Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain to keep him fresh for El Clasico. The 30-year-old came on as a substitute after an hour of play, but Barcelona fell to a 4-2 defeat in Paris, ending their perfect start to the season.

Flick started Marc Bernal instead, explaining that the decision was heavily influenced by the upcoming clash against Real Madrid, where Barcelona could move nine points clear. In the match, goals from Xavi Espart and Lamine Yamal were not enough to overcome PSG strikes by Desire Doue, Lucas Hernandez, Vitinha, and Fabian Ruiz.

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Barcelona coach Flick says Rodri was rested against PSG to keep him fresh for El Clasico

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