The agonizing wait is nearly over. Barcelona endured a difficult week following their Bernabéu defeat, eager for an immediate chance to correct course. Their focus now shifts to Sunday's clash at the Montjuïc against Elche, a side that has proven difficult to break down and whose stellar form has surprisingly propelled them into the top half of the table. Expect Elche to prioritize defence, aiming to frustrate a wounded Barça attack.
The potential good news for Hansi Flick is the reported return to training of star striker Robert Lewandowski and key midfielder Dani Olmo, both likely being fast-tracked back into contention. This relief is tempered by bad news: Pedri is confirmed out, and the injury timelines for Raphinha and goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen remain frustratingly vague.
Find out who we predicted for the line up in tomorrow’s fixture:
GK: Wojciech Szczesny
With both Joan Garcia and Marc-André ter Stegen nearing a return to fitness, his time as the primary goalkeeper appears to be concluding soon. He deserves recognition for his efforts; his heroics, including keeping us in the game against Real Madrid.
RB: Jules Kounde
He’s looked off the pace lately and nowhere near the level he showed last season. Don’t be surprised if Flick turns to Eric García and bring in another centre-back,
CB: Ronald Araujo
Needs minutes to stake his claim for a regular starting spot in a shaky backline, as he can offer much-needed intensity and defensive solidity.
CB: Eric Garcia
Barring the Real Madrid game, Eric Garica has been the standout defender this term and this will show his quality in a return to form.
LB: Alejandro Balde
Expect the dynamic left-back to use his pace and attacking drive to provide critical width and forward thrust down the flank. Partnership with Marcus Rashford working well.
CM: Marc Casado
The La Masia product will be tasked with dictating the tempo, carrying the ball through the lines, and providing the creative link between defense and attack.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
Will likely take on the deeper creative role since Pedri’s injury and his quality to find the attackers through the lines.
AM: Fermin Lopez
This little gem cannot stop scop and is undroppable at the moment ever since his return from injury.
RW: Lamine Yamal
Will need rest at some point, so get the job done in the first half and bring him off so he can rest his pubalgia issue. Will look to attack the full back from the first minute.
LW: Marcus Rashford
Five assists already, but he’ll want to start finding the net himself. His driving runs should open gaps for Fermín and Ferran, exactly what Barcelona need to get the three points.
ST: Ferran Torres
Comes into this game following a lot of criticism but will want to prove the doubters wrong and people who have backed him right. Likely over his muscle overload following a period of rest in the week.