Barcelona make their second trip to England this Champions League season, as they head to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea on Tuesday evening.
In their last visit to the UK, Marcus Rashford stole the spotlight with a brilliant performance, marking his return with a match-winning goal. He’ll be hoping to replicate that success, aiming to make an impact once again, whether by scoring the decisive goal or even bagging a brace.
The stakes are high for Barcelona, who find themselves in a precarious situation with only seven points from their first four group-stage matches. With the team currently outside the automatic qualification spots, a loss could see them face a potentially nerve-wracking play-off in February to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
Here’s how we think Hansi Flick will line up his side for Tuesday’s important game:
GK: Joan Garcia
He made his comeback at the weekend against Athletic and is expected to resume his place in the lineup, provided there are no setbacks in the aftermath. His return brought a noticeable uplift in the team’s pressing and defensive organisation, with his restored confidence clearly reflected in the team's performance.
RB: Jules Kounde
Strong outing at the weekend and will look to capitalise on that form against an attacking Chelsea. Will likely be up against Alejandro Garnacho and will look to control his directness.
CB: Ronald Araujo
The Uruguayan defender is the more dependable option against a dynamic Chelsea attack, with the spot likely coming down to a choice between him and Eric García. His physicality and defensive consistency give him a slight edge for this fixture.
CB: Pau Cubarsi
The Spanish international is among the elite when it comes to playing out from the back, and he will need to be at his sharpest to help contain Chelsea’s front line.
LB: Gerard Martin
Alejandro Balde was taken off at half-time at the weekend as a precaution and will likely be rested to avoid aggravating Barcelona’s growing injury list. He would have been a reliable option against Estevão, given his experience and composure in high-level European fixtures.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
Expected to sit deepest in the midfield trio, with the Dutchman returning refreshed after serving his domestic suspension. His role will be to connect defence, midfield, and attack, providing the fluidity and balance that underpin Barcelona’s build-up play.
CM: Dani Olmo
Has looked better in a deeper role following the form of Fermin Lopez was preferred. His technical skills and ability to pass and drive with the ball suits the deeper role.
CAM: Fermin Lopez
Star of the season so far. Earns his place in the first XI for the big matches.
RW: Lamine Yamal
The world will be watching to see the young superstar bring his trademark spark, especially in his direct battles with international teammate Marc Cucurella. There are understandable concerns about his workload so soon after recent injury issues, but he will still be one of the first names on the teamsheet.
ST: Robert Lewandowski
His recent form has earned him the nod over Ferran Torres, and he’ll be eager to maintain his goalscoring momentum.
LW: Marcus Rashford
Having recovered from illness, and with Raphinha unlikely to complete the full 90 minutes, the English star will be eager to return to his homeland and once again deliver the goals that could win Barcelona the game.