The end of the international break can be celebrated as we return to domestic football, with Barcelona players preparing for their first fixture back in front of the Los Culés.
Barcelona will look to maintain their unbeaten start in the league as the Estadi Johan Cruyff hosts its first game of the season, with Valencia visiting on Sunday. This unique fixture, while Camp Nou’s renovation, could feature some surprising squad selections, with players returning from a long international break in South America and others ruled out.
Alejandro Balde has been confirmed unavailable, while Frenkie de Jong remains doubtful, with the club prioritising his full recovery ahead of Thursday’s Champions League clash against Newcastle to ensure 100% fitness.
So with the squad news, let's see if we can predict how Hansi Flick will line up his side for tomorrow's match against Valencia.
Barcelona Lineup vs Valencia (4-2-3-1)
Joan García (GK)
The number one needs no introduction—his performances at the start of the season speak for themselves, playing a crucial role in keeping Barcelona in control against both Levante and Rayo Vallecano.
Jules Koundé (RB)
The Frenchman now looks like the stronger option at right-back, especially after Eric García started ahead of him recently. Flick is likely to favour continuity after the international break, rather than opting for García’s rested legs.
Andreas Christensen (CB)
Sticking with Christensen makes sense, especially with Araújo only just returning from a demanding international trip to South America. His absence further reinforces the case for the Dane to retain his place in the starting lineup.
Pau Cubarsí (CB)
A consistent starter and, in my view, the number one centre-back in the squad. What he needs now is a stable partner beside him to continue developing, especially as Barcelona heads into a crucial early stretch of the season.
Gerard Martín (LB)
It was a toss-up between him and Jofre Torrents, but Gerard Martín’s experience from last season gives him the edge. He filled in admirably when called upon, and the club’s decision to block his sale this summer has effectively secured him the backup role.
Marc Casado (CM)
As for midfield, this game comes too soon for Marc Bernal with Frenkie de Jong sidelined. That leaves Casado as the clear favourite to step in, providing the defensive cover that will free Pedri to push forward and join the attacks.
Pedri (CM)
The man can’t be dropped. He will bring the goals and assists.
Fermin Lopez (AM)
Dani Olmo had his chance in the Rayo Vallecano fixture and didn’t quite deliver, which opens the door for Fermín López to get his opportunity, especially with several attackers missing. This feels like the perfect moment for him to stake a real claim.
Raphinha (RW)
Initially, he looked set to start on the bench, but with Lamine Yamal ruled out at the last minute, the likelihood of Raphinha coming straight into the XI has grown. Another possible shuffle could see Roony get the nod, or Ferran Torres shift out to the right with Lewandowski leading the line up front.
Marcus Rashford (LW)
He’ll need to make an impact from the very start if he wants to cement his place going forward. Valencia’s more ambitious style compared to Levante should give him extra space and opportunities to drive forward, now it’s up to him to take full advantage.
Ferran Torres (CF)
Hansi Flick’s clear first-choice forward, he’s gradually taking the mantle as Lewandowski is phased out with his contract winding down. With Yamal sidelined, the responsibility of leading the attack and delivering the goals now falls heavily on his shoulders.