The final official game of the year arrives for FC Barcelona in the form of a visit from Almeria. The Blaugranes are currently in a position that is far from their best, both on the field and on the La Liga table. As such, Barcelona would do well to end 2023 on a positive note against Almeria.
Heading into the clash, Xavi’s side is quite heavily depleted. Two very important players in the form of Pedri and Frenkie De Jong are both unavailable. One is out due to suspension while the other just recently picked up a muscular injury.
Here is how Xavi could line up his Barcelona team against Almeria:
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Inaki Pena
Until Marc Andre Ter Stegen fully recovers, it seems almost guaranteed that Inaki Pena will continue to start. The Spaniard has been a solid deputy for the injured German keeper in many ways. However, Barcelona has been conceding quite a lot of goals recently, and Pena will be hoping to ensure that does not become a recurring theme.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
The Frenchman’s performances as a right-back have looked far more consistent this season than him as a central defender. His versatility and sense of the game both allow him to be a solid fullback for Barcelona.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
In terms of leadership and commitment to the cause, few players reach the level of Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan gladiator is among the most crucial Barcelona players for Xavi Hernandez, and for good reason. His presence in this game could be instrumental.
Centre-back: Andreas Christensen
The Dane has been a competent alternative to Inigo Martinez this season. In fact, given their respective qualities, picking between them has surely been a headache for Xavi. However, with Martinez injured, for now, the coach’s decision becomes much easier.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Given the risk of suspension for Joao Cancelo in this game, it is possible that Xavi chooses not to field him. In his stead, young Alejandro Balde could continue his ascent back to the starting eleven. The young Spaniard has been improving game by game, and he can finally show off what he truly brings to the table.
CDM: Marc Casado
A bet for the future and for the present, Marc Casado could be chosen by Xavi to start this game. Having already lost both Pedri and Frenkie De Jong for this encounter, several reports suggest Casado has a good chance to start this time around. His technical abilities and a special reading of the game will both get a chance to shine if he gets chosen.
CM: Fermin Lopez
The dynamic midfielder possesses a unique kind of skillset. His more direct and vertical approach is something that most other Barcelona midfielders do not have in abundance. Powerful shooting coupled with a mean tenacity, Lopez is definitely a special kind of footballer.
CM: Ilkay Gundogan
Hailing from Germany, Ilkay Gundogan seems almost guaranteed to start this game. As arguably the only regular first-team midfielder currently being available, Xavi will have to trust him to lead the pact against Almeria. His experience, versatility, and technical ability have all been key for Barcelona this season.
Right-winger: Lamine Yamal
The young 16-year-old almost always delivers whenever he is counted on. With a special affinity for cutting past defenders, his dribbling on its own helps create a lot of space for Barcelona. Moreover, he has also proven to be quite the creative winger, with his crosses always causing havoc in the box.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
While Robert Lewandowski may be misfiring a lot this season, his previous outing against Valencia was quite promising. Much more direct and willing to shoot without hesitation, that is the version of Lewandowski that people missed. Now, fans of Barça can just hope he corrects him ahead of the second half of the season.
Left-winger: Joao Felix
The Portuguese forward was the only goalscorer for Barcelona in the previous outing against Valencia. However, even he needs to up his game if Barcelona hope to be significantly competitive again.
His link-up play, positioning, and awareness all are strong attributes of his. However, his work rate is something that definitely needs a touch-up.
