Barcelona head into the final match of their three-game away stretch with the toughest test on paper, a trip to Vallecas to face Rayo Vallecano. It’s a chance to plant a flag in this season’s La Liga race and lay down a statement to their rivals early doors.
Team news points to Robert Lewandowski being fit to start, while Gavi misses out due to knee discomfort. The club views this as a concern, given it’s the same issue that sidelined him for a year, considered a big blow, especially after his game-changing cameo last week.
With that in mind, here’s the predicted XI we expect to line up tomorrow evening.
Joan Garcia
Two strong league performances have already shown why the decision to make him number one, even at the expense of captain Marc-André ter Stegen, was worth the gamble. After conceding twice last week, he’ll be eyeing a clean sheet to get back on track.
Eric Garcia
With Jules Kounde breathing down his neck for the starting role, the Spanish defender will be wanting to keep his performance levels up to remain as the right back.
Pau Cubarsi
The high line was exposed once again, with Levante taking full advantage of the defensive frailties. Even so, his starting spot looks safe in Flick’s system, and he still stands out as the pick of the defenders.
Ronald Araujo
Barcelona might have wished for one more steady year from Iñigo Martínez, but the responsibility now firmly shifts to Araújo. Despite looking shaky in the last outing, the trust has to be placed in him. Andreas Christiansen and Kounde could be possible deputies should his form continue to slide.
Alejandro Balde
The irreplaceable youngster with the position that I am most confident in picking.
Frenkie de Jong
Gavi is injured and the likely one to challenge Frenkie’s position. Marc Casado auditioned last week but was hooked at half time, so him being selected in the starting XI looks unlikely.
Pedri
Another confident choice. Pedri is essential for the team as his performances have shown consistency and excellence.
Lamine Yamal
The last of the nailed-on picks, I promise. He might not look at his most fluid yet, but he’s been instrumental every time, finding the net in each of the last few games.
Dani Olmo
Not back to his best just yet, but returning to where he put his best performance last season can reignite the attacking midfielder. An audition to start over Fermin Lopez as he mulls over transfer interest.
Raphinha
Raphinha is important to this team in the left wing role as he provides width and attack threat from inside. Rashford hasn’t pushed him enough to be in contention.
Ferran Torres
A return for Robert Lewandowski might come a touch too soon, especially with Ferran impressing over the last two games. For the Spaniard, this feels like the season to finally stake his claim as a long-term option through the middle.