Barcelona's Substitution Strategy Exposed: Pedri Leads in Substitution Count, Flick's Rotation Shows Strategic Depth

According to statistics from Mundo Deportivo, Pedri has become Barcelona's most substituted player this season. Since taking over as head coach in summer 2024, Hansi Flick has positioned Pedri as the midfield core, flexibly adjusting his position to avoid extended continuous appearances. Pedri has participated in every match, missing only one starting appearance, and has started the remaining games, but has never played a full 90 minutes. Pedri himself has stated that his form is in better shape, yet the frequent substitutions highlight the team's rotation philosophy. In contrast, Yamal, Raphinha, and the injured Joan Garcia have played all full matches.