Quilindschy Hartman's adventure at Espanyol has not started as he had hoped. Two league games have now gone by and he is still waiting for his debut.
In last week's season opener against Levante, a 3-0 win, 21-year-old Roger Hinojo got the nod at left-back. The same happened against Real Madrid last weekend, a 1-2 defeat.
Hartman also stayed on the bench on both occasions. That has prompted the first cautious concerns in the Spanish media over the Dutchman, who arrived this summer as a 'major signing'.
Questions are now being asked because a player who spent last season out on loan is keeping out a targeted signing. Coach Manolo González gave a full explanation for his choices at a press moment, insisting Hartman is still working his way back to full fitness.
"I'm happy with both of them, because they are different players who each bring something different to the game. Hinojo has done really well, to be honest. He already had a good pre-season last year and his loan spell also went well. He has come back in much better shape than when he left."
González then continued: "Hartman may still be having some difficulty with his adaptation and still has to find his rhythm and pace. Technically, however, he is one of the best players in the squad. We think that, as he becomes more accustomed to the style of play and the pace in Spain, he will be able to offer us much more."
At Burnley last season, Hartman went through a difficult spell after rather suddenly losing his starting place as the campaign wore on. He moved to Barcelona hoping to breathe new life into his career, but for now he has to settle for a reserve role.