UEFA Champions League: Probable Barcelona starting XI against SL Benfica

It was a fine weekend for Barcelona fans as they were able to see their club return to winning ways in La Liga as they defeated Levante 3-0 at the Camp Nou. The Blaugrana outfit has had a tough time in the pitch in the past couple of weeks as they dropped points against Granada and Cadiz.

After Bayern defeat, Barcelona will look for their first points in the UCL

For now, the Catalans have been scheduled to visit the Estadio da Luz for their away group stage fixture against Benfica. In terms of form, the hosts have been in top form this term as they have put up solid performances in the league campaign and have held the top spot in the Portuguese top-flight.

Ahead of the match, Ronald Koeman spoke to the press regarding his side’s preparations for the game. The Dutchman also talked about how his team is looking forward to competing with the home side. His words were :

"We know they are a strong team and have an important place in the world of football. It will be a nice match and a match where we need a good result. There are two teams with their own style who will play to win so it will be interesting"

This could be Barcelona’s best XI on Wednesday…..

Ronald Koeman will look to put his best team on the pitch as he would look to register the first win of the ongoing Champions League campaign. As per team news, Pedri has finally returned from injury as he was named on the 20-man squad on Tuesday.

The starting side should see Marc Andre Ter Stegen donning the gloves between the sticks. The German will be guarded by his two centre-backs-Ronald Araujo and Gerard Pique. Both defenders will have to keep things tight at the back and hence will be a vital part in this Barca defense.

Sergino Dest will be handed a spot in the left-back position due to the absence of Jordi Alba. Oscar Mingueza will be featuring in the right-back role and will have to put up a solid shift against the Portuguese outfit.

Barcelona’s midfield will consist of Sergio Busquets as the defensive midfielder. The Spaniard will be accompanied by two central midfielders-Frenkie De Jong and Sergi Roberto. Youngster Gavi, too, is in line for a start against Benfica but, however, the attacking midfielder might have to forfeit his place for an experienced campaigner like Roberto.

Koeman’s attacking trio will consist of Phillipe Coutinho as the left-winger whereas Memphis Depay will occupy the no.9 role upfront. After a good performance against Levante, Luuk De Jong will likely be rewarded with a place in the side. The Sevilla loanee will be featuring as the center forward in this crucial tie on Wednesday.

Expected Starting XI (4-3-3):

Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre ter Stegen

Right-back: Oscar Mingueza
Centre-back (R): Gerard Pique
Centre-back (L): Ronald Araujo
Left-back: Sergino Dest

Central midfielder (R): Sergi Roberto
Defensive midfielder: Sergio Busquets
Central midfielder (L): Frenkie de Jong

Right-winger: Phillipe Coutinho
Center-forward: Luuk de Jong
Left-winger:  Memphis Depay