For Barcelona, their upcoming game holds a lot of value in terms of their progression. While the season is far from over, Barcelona is gradually falling behind their direct competitors in La Liga. Currently, in fourth, Barcelona need to make positive developments fast.
Their next opponent, Atletico Madrid, will be one of Barça’s biggest tests yet. The Catalan giants will need to head into this game with a positive mindset if they want to come out of it with a positive result. To do so, Xavi will need to field as strong a lineup as he possibly can.
Here is how Barcelona could line up against Atletico Madrid.
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Inaki Pena
With Ter Stegen now confirmed to be out of the game, Inaki Pena will cover the Barcelona goal once again. His performances recently have been reliable, so Barcelona will not be too worried about their goalkeeping choice.
Right-back: Ronald Araujo
Despite his insistence upon the fact that it is as a central defender that he feels most comfortable, Ronald Araujo provides security to Barcelona as a right-back. Against Atletico Madrid, security will be essential for Barcelona to get a good result.
Centre-back: Jules Kounde
The Frenchman is currently on his own journey to fully convince Xavi of his qualities. Despite being undisputed last season, Kounde has been a bit inconsistent in the current one. As such, the test against Atletico Madrid will be a big one for the French defender.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
Now a mainstay within Xavi’s Barcelona, Inigo Martinez has earned his spot. His ball-playing ability coupled with his commitment to Barcelona and the club’s cause have been instrumental assets to the team.
Left-back: Joao Cancelo
After a massively impressive performance against FC Porto, Joao Cancelo should retain his spot at left-back. It allows him to cut inside onto his favored right foot and also allows for more creative plays with Joao Felix, with both the Portuguese stars seemingly having a very strong creative connection.
CDM: Ilkay Gundogan
In terms of experience when it comes to playing high-intensity games, Ilkay Gundogan is no rookie. Having played for Manchester City at the highest level possible, he will be prepared for what to expect from an opponent like Atletico Madrid and how best to help his team out as well.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
The bond that glues Barcelona together. Frenkie De Jong is an elite progressive footballer who has the ability to create and disrupt depending upon simply how well he plays. His talent is quite unique and special, and Xavi is clear that making full use of it will be crucial for Barcelona.
CM: Pedri
Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy winner already, Pedri is the gold standard for youngsters. His influence in Barcelona is almost unmatched and his style of play embodies the philosophy of La Blaugrana. Making use of him against Atletico could prove to be the vital key for the Catalan giants.
Right-winger: Raphinha
While he could not get on the scoresheet against Porto, Raphinha generated a lot of danger. His ability to cut inside and let loose a lethal strike makes him a spontaneously useful asset to have. It seems likely that he will return to the starting eleven against Atletico.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Undoubtedly losing prominence in terms of his impact, Lewandowski needs to turn his season around. With Vitor Roque’s arrival in January seeming more and more likely, Lewandowski needs to step up to retain his place within Xavi’s side.
Left-winger: Joao Felix
A lot of baggage and personal connection will be present for Joao Felix in this game. Recent criticism from former teammates obviously adds fuel to the fire, and Felix will want to continue scoring even in this game just as he managed to do so against Porto.
