Barcelona locker room amazed by versatile star’s level, expected to start vs Espanyol

Dani Olmo arrived as the marquee signing of Hansi Flick’s new Barcelona era. The forward landed in the Catalan capital after playing a starring role in Spain’s UEFA Euro 2024 triumph, following Pedri’s injury.

The 26-year-old versatile attacking midfielder signed a six-year contract with a €500 million release clause, with Barcelona paying RB Leipzig €47 million for his signing.

Seamless integration

And it would be safe to say that so far, Olmo has delivered on the expectations. Indeed, his integration into the dressing room has been remarkable. Having previously played with several teammates in the national team, his adaptation has been quick and seamless.

The fact that he was trained at La Masia during his youth career has also helped.

In fact, according to Alex Pintanel, during his first days at Barcelona, both teammates and coaching staff were ‘amazed’ by Olmo’s performance, particularly the rhythm and intensity he brought to training sessions.

“The difference compared to others was huge. He’s operating at another level,” sources from the Barcelona dressing room reveal.

Olmo’s debut against Rayo Vallecano is said to have made a huge impact on the locker room. Coming on at the start of the second half with Barcelona trailing 1-0, he transformed the game, helping his team secure a comeback win.

“I can’t remember such an impressive debut impact as Olmo’s,” club sources state.

Start beckons vs Espanyol

Olmo’s performance level has been exceptional, as he scored three goals in five matches before suffering an injury.

The Spanish international recently returned to action against Bayern Munich, playing the final fifteen minutes and showing glimpses of his quality. He also featured against Real Madrid coming on as a substitute in the 65th minute.

Having made a good impression during his time on the pitch in the Clasico, Olmo now appears to be ready to start against RCD Espanyol in the Catalan derby this weekend.

The 26-year-old has fully recovered and will hope to recover the goalscoring form and sharpness he had displayed before getting injured.