Barcelona vs Mallorca: Ansu Fati and Hector Fort Return to Starting XI After Duo’s Frustrated Reactions

Hansi Flick Starts Fati and Fort in La Liga Clash Against Mallorca. Is He Responding to Players’ Discontent?

In a notable shift, FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has included Ansu Fati and Hector Fort in the starting lineup for their La Liga match against RCD Mallorca. This decision comes after both players exhibited visible frustration due to limited playtime in their recent 4-3 victory over Celta Vigo.

However, that may not be the exact reason for the German coach to introduce the two in the starting XI. Barca have four extremely important fixtures coming in against Real Madrid and Inter Milan. The four matches will be held in in the span of two weeks. Hence, he also needs to rotate his squad.

🚨 BARÇA XI 🚨#BarçaMallorca pic.twitter.com/NvzGAQOpjN
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 22, 2025

Players’ Frustration Leads to Starting Opportunities?

During the dramatic win over Celta, Fati was seen kicking a water cooler in frustration after he was left on the bench even after warming up. Hector Fort also showed his discontent at the end of the match as he walked straight to the dressing room without acknowledging Flick.

Hansi Flick addressed the situation during the press conference ahead of their clash against Mallorca, saying:

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“I can understand they are disappointed, but I can’t understand the reactions. I want to see the right reaction when they play on the pitch, not after a match that we won.”

Strategic Rotation Ahead of Key Fixtures

Cue to their La Liga clash against Mallorca when Flick made seven changes to the starting eleven. He rotated heavily with one eye on the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid. Ansu Fati started on the left wing in place of Raphinha.

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Thus, making his first La Liga start in 184 days. In the backline, Fort replaces Gerard Martín at left-back position. The lineup adjustments are part of a wider plan to manage squad fitness during a heavily congested schedule while rewarding players looking to prove themselves.

It’s important to note that Barcelona are still fighting on multiple fronts. The match against Mallorca provides a crucial platform for both Fati and Fort to make a statement. Especially considering Real Madrid are breathing on Barca’s neck in La Liga and could catch up the moment the Catalan side drop the ball. Literally and figuratively.

Ansu Fati

Barcelona

Barcelona vs Mallorca

Celta Vigo

Hansi Flick

Hector Fort

La Liga

Mallorca

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.