Right before their all-important Champions League clash, Barcelona have an encounter in La Liga. While it may not be as fateful as the one in Paris, the clash at the Montjuic against Las Palmas is important nonetheless. To ensure Barcelona remains alive in La Liga, victory is essential.
However, given the importance of the match against Paris Saint-Germain, rotations seem like a likely option for Xavi. Many stars need the rest, and others could use a break to shake off any lingering discomforts, so it would not be a surprise to see Barcelona lineup a bit unconventionally.
Here is how Barcelona could line up against Las Palmas.
Expected Lineup:
Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen
Even before a big game such as the one against PSG, the goalkeeper for Barcelona remains an absolute. Ter Stegen continues to be Barça’s undisputed first choice, and his presence against Las Palmas is almost taken for granted.
Left-back: Joao Cancelo
After suffering a late scare not too long ago, Joao Cancelo is finally back and available for action. The Portuguese fullback should slot right back in for Barcelona as their temporary answer to the left-back dilemma.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
With both Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen looking unlikely to start against Las Palmas, Inigo Martinez is presented a great opportunity. The veteran Spaniard could once again showcase his mettle and use this chance to show off his best traits once again.
Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi
The young teenage sensation, who has already been sent an extension proposal, should once again be fit to feature for Barcelona. With Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen both housing an injury or discomfort of some kind, the young Spaniard’s presence could provide them some comfort.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
An improved version of the Frenchman continues to aid Barcelona now. Gone are the turbulent initial waves of Kounde’s rather uncharacteristic mishaps, and he now provides both defensive and offensive stability to Barcelona even as a right-back.
CDM: Oriol Romeu
With Andreas Christensen still looking unlikely to start for Barcelona against Las Palmas, another pivot will need to step up. For Xavi, Oriol Romeu is an option that is expendable and has plenty of rest. Moreover, his selection would allow others to finally catch a break.
CM: Sergi Roberto
Speaking of catching breaks, Ilkay Gundogan could really use one. That is where Sergi Roberto comes in. Coupling his technical skills, recent good form, and even his experience, Roberto offers Xavi a solid backup option.
CM: Fermin Lopez
In red-hot form, Fermin Lopez absolutely deserves to continue starting. Against both Napoli and Atletico Madrid, two of Barça’s toughest opponents, Lopez managed to find himself on the scoresheet. Beyond just that, his workrate and determination remain second to none.
Left-winger: Joao Felix
Crucial against Atletico Madrid, Joao Felix may start once again for Barcelona. His ability to think outside the box and come up with clever solutions in spontaneous moments could be useful for Barcelona against a formidable Las Palmas side.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
While there is a chance that Vitor Roque potentially starts this game, but Robert Lewandowski’s form in 2024 is simply too immense to not let him continue starting. The Polish striker is back to scoring goals, and those too with the quality and viciousness of a young version of himself.
Right-winger: Raphinha
To afford Lamine Yamal some rest, Raphinha could be told to step in. The Brazilian has been providing solid performances recently so he could once again be of use to Barcelona against Las Palmas.
