Barcelona will undoubtedly be hoping for a comfortable outing to conserve energy ahead of this weekend's critical El Clásico against Real Madrid. While a home Champions League fixture against Olympiacos might seem like the perfect opportunity for an easy victory and squad rotation, this match is shaping up to be far from straightforward.
The pressure of the impending rivalry could easily distract the Catalan side, creating an opening for a disciplined opponent to come and spring a surprise. The key danger lies in the tactical setup of the Greek champions. Although Olympiacos have not been prolific in attack this season, their defence proved surprisingly resilient in the last matchday, holding a potent Arsenal side to a respectable result.
For a Barcelona team that hasn't quite found its sparkling form in front of goal this year, breaking down a compact, well-organized defence could be a frustrating task, and a task they will not want
Therefore, the manager's approach to selection is critical. Should Barcelona choose to heavily rotate their squad and rest key creative and attacking stars, they risk sacrificing the necessary sharpness to unlock a stubborn back line.
This is a classic European trap, Barcelona must treat this match with full seriousness to secure the points and avoid an exhausting, confidence-denting struggle.
Here’s our predicted line up for the Champions League fixture.
GK: Wojciech Szczesny
Wojciech Szczesny is the automatic pick in between the sticks when Joan Garcia is out injured. Made a few good saves against Girona so will be looking to maintain that form.
RB: Eric Garcia
Preferred in the centre-back position at the weekend, giving Jules Kounde a rest for the midweek ready for the El Clasico.
CB: Ronald Araujo
Was tempted to put him up front but one finish doesn’t make him a striker. The centre back will enjoy a Champions League run out as Garcia and Cubarsi will likely be the centre-back pairing at the weekend.
CB: Pau Cubarsi
The best ball-playing defender in the squad and one that can link the defensive to midfield and attacker.
LB: Gerard Martin
This game is made for him. He will be a solid option in a game that Barcelona are expected to win, giving Alejandro Balde
CM: Marc Casado
Ran his heart out at the weekend and now goes again as he looks to build a partnership with the captain the deep central midfield.
CM: Frenkie de Jong
Provided an assist for Araujo last minute winner and will look to contribute to defense and attack. Needs to be in the squad if Pedri is being rested.
RW: Lamine Yamal
The talented young winger is expected to utilize his blistering pace and close control to stretch the Olympiacos defense to cut in on his favoured foot.
CAM: Toni Fernandez
Tasked with being the creative link, the attacking midfielder will be responsible for threading passes and operating between the lines to trouble the opposition's defense. Played well as the false nine at the weekend, and will look to improve on that performance and his role in the first team squad.
LW: Fermín López
Came on at half time and changed the intensity. Will need a 60+ minute cameo to pick up speed for the El Clasico at the weekend.
ST: Marcus Rashford
The experienced forward will be the main goal threat, using his intelligent movement to get in behind the defense and apply the final, decisive touch. Want to see him on free-kicks again, hopefully more lucky this time.