Barcelona’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Inter Milan in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final offered no shortage of drama, with Lamine Yamal’s brilliance rightly taking the headlines. 

However, a less-noticed moment involving Dani Olmo has sparked subtle tension within the squad and raised questions about the midfielder’s role under Hansi Flick.

Olmo’s anger

Olmo, who started in an advanced midfield position alongside Frenkie De Jong and Pedri, was taken off in the 68th minute and replaced by Fermin Lopez. 

While the substitution may have appeared routine, the Spanish international’s reaction suggested otherwise. 

According to SPORT, he exchanged handshakes with both Fermin and Flick, but then gestured with clear frustration, raising his hand in what appeared to be a visible sign of disapproval. 

Whether this was directed at the substitution itself or at his own performance remains unclear, but it was a moment that didn’t go unnoticed.

Olmo was on par with his performance

Statistically, Olmo’s game was not poor. He managed two key passes, recorded an 88% pass completion rate, attempted two shots on target, and completed one successful dribble from two attempts. 

He also drew three fouls. However, he lost the ball eight times, and his overall influence was limited by Inter Milan’s compact and physical defensive shape, which clogged the central areas and left him with very little space to operate.

For what it is worth, this is not the first time Olmo has been subbed relatively early in matches. Against Mallorca, Flick withdrew him in the 62nd minute. In the Copa del Rey, it was the 65th. 

There seems to be a pattern emerging, one that the player himself is likely noticing. 

Olmo’s evident displeasure may stem from repeatedly being one of the first players sacrificed in tightly contested matches, despite his pedigree and potential to influence high-stakes games.