Following their 3-0 victory over Real Madrid, Barcelona now look towards ending their tour to the United States of America on the strongest note possible as they face their final opponents for the said tour.
Taking on Italian giants AC Milan in Las Vegas at the Allegiant Stadium, Barcelona will possibly try to field their strongest eleven that Xavi hopes to begin and head into the new season with.
This would allow the Catalan club to make a strong impression in their final outing as well as refer to any changes that Xavi still believes can be adjusted within this Barcelona set-up. The following is how Barcelona could potentially line up.
Potential Line-up:
- Goalkeeper: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Now the second captain of the team, Ter Stegen must sustain his leadership at the back to maintain Barcelona’s compact defensive structure. His last performance against Real Madrid was also one that deserves high praise.
- Right-back: Sergi Roberto
With Andreas Christensen unlikely to be risked for this game against AC Milan, it would appear that Jules Kounde will be tasked to play the role of a central defender while Spanish veteran and new first captain for Barcelona, Sergi Roberto, helms the right-back position.
- Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
Organized and crucial in the game against Real Madrid, Ronald Araujo performed his task dutifully in the right-back position as he was able to contain Vinicius Jr to an extreme extent. Now against AC Milan, he should ideally return to his preferred central defender role.
- Centre-back: Jules Kounde
The French defender is now believed to be an asset that Xavi can trust both as a central defender and a fullback. His versatility and quality overall have allowed him to become a fundamental part of this current Barcelona side.
- Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Continues to showcase why he is such a revelation for FC Barcelona. His immense talent and raw ability were both at display against Real Madrid and the youngster will be looking to continue that streak against AC Milan.
- CDM: Oriol Romeu
Following a rather nervy performance against Arsenal in his debut, the new arrival showcased his improved version against Real Madrid and truly did not disappoint. His performance against AC Milan should he be selected, could provide a grander picture for things to come.
- CM: Pedri
The young Barcelona star continues to light the way for the Catalans whenever he takes on the field. The current number 8 for La Blaugrana possesses maturity and technical prowess well beyond his years, and Xavi hopes for it to shine through against AC Milan.
- CM: Frenkie De Jong
His almost magical performance against Real Madrid was another testament as to why the Dutchman is such a sought-after player in the European market. His technique, vision, and awareness of the game are simply a joy to watch.
- Left-winger: Ez Abde
The immaculate display by the Moroccan against Real Madrid will stay fresh in the minds of fans of Barcelona heading into this upcoming clash against AC Milan. The youngster, should he be given a chance, would have an ideal opportunity to continue his run of good form against the Italian giants.
- Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
A massive threat for any side that looks to come up against him, Lewandowski remains a danger both when he is left unchecked and as well as when he is considered the sole attacking threat by oppositions.
- Right-winger: Raphinha
With reports beginning to heat up regarding a possible transfer of French winger Ousmane Dembele to Ligue 1 outfit PSG, it would be the ideal time for Raphinha to finally step up and showcase exactly why he was brought in as an alternative to Dembele and take his place in the side.
Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: Ter Stegen
- Defenders: Balde, Kounde, Araujo, Roberto
- Midfielders: Pedri, Romeu, De Jong
- Forwards: Abde, Lewandowski, Raphinha
