The upcoming clash for FC Barcelona against 7th-placed Real Betis will be a tough contest for the Catalans in their La Liga campaign. Without a doubt one of the most formidable opponents in Spain, Betis will be expected to give Barcelona a hard time in Matchday 5 of La Liga EA Sports 2023/24.
Despite the absence of both Spanish midfielder Pedri and Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo, Barcelona will be expected to display a strong game in front of their home fans at the Montjuic Stadium with a formidable team to start as well.
Here is how Barcelona are expected to line up.
Potential Lineup:
Goalkeeper: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
The ever-reliable Barcelona captain and German National team goalkeeper looks set to start yet again for Barca. Moreover, the Barcelona stopper will look to keep Real Betis at bay in order to ensure his team remain on the front foot.
Right-back: Joao Cancelo
After a long wait, Barcelona fans could finally get to see one of their latest Portuguese arrivals in action from the start of the game. Having returned from International duty, the 29-year-old could finally provide Barcelona some much-needed specialization on the right flank of the defense.
Centre-back: Jules Kounde
The Frenchman remains one of the most consistent and reliable players within this Barcelona squad and it is rather guaranteed that he will retain his spot in the heart of the defensive structure. A lot of faith will be put into his abilities both on and off the ball to ensure Betis get as little time in front of goal as possible.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
The Spaniard was among the new arrivals during the summer transfer window and it could be his day against Betis to finally start for Barcelona. Recent reports have suggested he is back to his physical best and the Barcelona coaches are truly happy with his current development as well.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
The young Spaniard remains a complete blaze on the left flank for Barcelona. His speed and explosive dynamism could prove to be key for the Catalan giants to continuously thwart the extremes of Real Betis and their width.
CDM: Oriol Romeu
At this point, Romeu is arguably an undisputed starter within the setup of Xavi Hernandez’s preference. His qualities both on and off the ball have been crucial for Barcelona to be able to perform at their best, and it seems that he will once again mark his presence against Betis.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
One of the stars of the season thus far for Barcelona, the Dutchman has completely transformed into the best version of himself seen thus far at the Catalan club. Moreover, the defensive balance provided by Oriol Romeu has allowed De Jong to thrive unlike ever before.
CM: Gavi
With Gundogan likely to remain on the bench at the start of the game, Gavi could be pulled back into the midfield rather than his now typical presence at the left-wing position. His tenacity and drive could both be crucial for Barcelona to win their duels and maintain control of possession in the midfield.
Right-winger: Raphinha
Having performed well for the Brazilian National team, Raphinha could become Xavi’s answer on the right wing for the clash against Betis. This decision would also allow the Barcelona coach to rest star prodigy Lamine Yamal, with the 16-year-old already having played excessively this season and a break might end up being good for him.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
The Polish forward will be raring to have another go at improving his goal tally for this season. Finally coming into his groove and scoring for both Barca and the Polish National team, Lewandowski will be a sure striker for Xavi to deploy against Real Betis in the upcoming clash.
Left-winger: Ferran Torres
Ferran Torres has barely played 90 minutes thus far for both Spain and Barcelona combined, yet he has already scored four times. Moreover, the Spaniard has also been Barca’s top scorer during the preseason this year. By any and every possible merit or regulation, it is only deserved that Torres finally gets his chance to start for the Catalan giants this time around against a formidable Betis side.
