Barcelona kicks off a crucial December schedule aiming for a coveted fifth consecutive La Liga win, while their opponents are also on a winning streak of their own. The Catalan giants welcome Atlético Madrid for a massive, boasting seven consecutive wins across all competitions after a challenging start to their campaign.
The Spotify Camp Nou is set to host its first true heavyweight clash since its reopening, with a three-point margin separating the two rivals ahead of kickoff.
For Barcelona, the return of Pedri to the starting XI is a major boost, and confidence is high that Frenkie de Jong will overcome fitness doubts to reunite their crucial midfield partnership. However, the biggest tactical questions remain centered on the composition of the defence and the critical role assigned to Raphinha - does he start or feature from the bench?
Here is our predicted starting XI:
GK: Joan Garcia
The Spanish international goalkeeper is a guaranteed starter and, now fully fit, his form is expected to be a decisive factor in upcoming matches, mirroring his impactful performances prior to injury. The high-level competition he faces from peers like Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny is likely to ensure his continued consistency.
RB: Jules Kounde
Jules Koundé returns directly to the starting XI, having been strategically rested during the recent Alavés fixture. This decision was likely made due to his preceding period of indifferent form, aiming to ensure he is fresh and ready for this important midweek game.
CB: Eric Garcia
With Ronald Araujo’s leave of absence indefinite that leaves Garcia to continue his first team role without any competition.
CB: Pau Cubarsi
Despite the backline having looked somewhat weak this season, this key defender remains the indispensable 'glue' holding the unit together. Given the limited available options, Hansi Flick is expected to continue fielding this player alongside his strongest partner to maximize defensive stability.
LB: Alejandro Balde
A sure shoo-in for the left back with Gerard Martin now being preferred in the left-sided half of the centre back. His consistent performances still puts him ahead of Martin.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
The Dutch midfielder is heading towards full fitness according to Flick, but the possibility of Marc Casadó starting in his place remains a genuine threat.
CM: Pedri
What a time for Barcelona’s most important player to return, just in time for a match that could be decisive in this battle at the top of the table. He makes football look effortless, and it’s a joy to watch.
CAM: Dani Olmo
Dani Olmo's two-goal contribution was crucial against Alaves and will undoubtedly boost his confidence, which seems to be lacking this season. With Fermín López currently sidelined, Olmo must now leverage this momentum to establish consistent form as a regular starter.
RW: Lamine Yamal
When fit, this superstar doesn't get dropped. A goal at the weekend and slowly getting back to the form from last season as he manages an injury.
ST: Ferran Torres
He secures the starting spot ahead of Robert Lewandowski, prioritized for the extra dimension he brings to these critical fixtures. However, a rapid return to his early-season form is non-negotiable; failure to deliver could see him relegated to the bench throughout December, handing the main attacking role back to the Polish legend.
LW: Marcus Rashford
Raphinha got valuable minutes against Alavés and impressed, but starting two matches in four days is unlikely for someone returning from a long-term injury. The English forward is the ideal replacement, having already contributed with goals and assists this season.