FC Barcelona have often found themselves in complicated situations in recent times due to a lack of depth. Whether that lack of depth comes from financial issues or simply a lack of quality, it has harmed the club significantly. Fortunately for Barcelona, the team seems much more balanced as it currently stands.
Through the availability of the squad depth at his disposal, Xavi managed to field a rotated eleven against Cadiz. The team still managed to take away all three points from the Nuevo Mirandilla, despite having many key players rested or sanctioned.
However, the lineup that Xavi ultimately fielded gives some clues as to what the next encounter could look like for them.
As highlighted by SPORT, the lineup that took on Cadiz gives some clear indications about the potential Barcelona team that will face Paris Saint-Germain. Arguably their most important encounter of the season, the PSG clash at the Montjuic Stadium will define what Barça’s hopes for this season look like.
In terms of the XI that Xavi may end up fielding, some guarantees are a given. The goalkeeper position will be taken by Marc-Andre Ter Stegen, who did coincidentally also play the entirety of the recent victory over Cadiz. However, his good form in goal with his sixth consecutive league clean sheet will surely keep his confidence high.
Within the back line, the presence of Pau Cubarsi will be definite as well. Despite playing against Cadiz as well, Xavi stated that he accumulated less fatigue than some of his other teammates so his presence is a given. Alongside him, the likes of Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, and Joao Cancelo should be the other guarantees.
Over in the midfield, none of the three favorites to start against PSG started the Cadiz game. Pedri seems to be fit enough to finally start for Barcelona, while Frenkie De Jong and Ilkay Gundogan could be his partners in the midfield.
Both Andreas Christensen and Sergi Roberto are suspended for the game, otherwise, the Dane may have potentially started as well.
Lastly, the frontline will likely see a repeat of the same team that went to Paris and came away with the victory. Robert Lewandowski will spearhead the Barcelona attack, while the likes of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha will cover either of his wings and try to distort and dismember PSG in any way that they can.
