FC Barcelona enter their match against FC Porto knowing exactly what is at stake. Xavi’s side is determined to ensure their progression into the knockout stages, as well as retaining their top spot in Group H. As such, a win against their Portuguese rivals would be crucial.
Given the expected intensity, Xavi will likely go for his strongest possible eleven. A tough stretch of games is now coming up, and Barcelona will want to ensure that they start off on the right foot.
This is how Barcelona could line up against FC Porto.
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Inaki Pena
With Ter Stegen looking unlikely to feature once again, Inaki Pena may have to return to the starting eleven. Ultimately, he remains the primary keeper available for La Blaugrana and he will be tasked with keeping Porto at bay.
Right-back: Ronald Araujo
The Uruguayan was rested against Rayo Vallecano in the last game. Accordingly, it feels only fitting that he ends up starting this game. His brute strength and impressive athleticism could be crucial for Barcelona in a game of such intensity.
Centre-back: Jules Kounde
Another player who was benched against Rayo, Jules Kounde could also return to the starting eleven. Already having kept a clean sheet against Porto last time out, he would be hoping for a retreat performance.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
The Spaniard’s accurate and powerful passing range has been instrumental for Barcelona recently. Both decisive goals scored against Rayo and previously against Alaves came through great passes played by Martinez. He is beginning to cement himself as more and more of a guarantee under Xavi.
Left-back: Joao Cancelo
Arguably the most reliable player across the field for Barcelona, Joao Cancelo has a technical skill that few can match. His control over both the ball and his usage of it feels unparalleled at times. He could be key against Porto, an opponent he is all too familiar with.
CDM: Ilkay Gundogan
Having come off the bench at Vallecas, the German could possibly start this game. His arrival managed to increase both the tempo and verticality for Barcelona last time out, and Xavi will be hoping for that to be the case from the very beginning against Porto.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
The Dutchman recently returned against Rayo, and has recovered enough to start games again. His ability to effortlessly glide across the field as if it were by his will alone is simply mesmeric to watch. Yet, the Barcelona captain will want to ensure his team manages not just control but also danger this time.
CM: Pedri
Gradually coming back to his best version, Pedri will have a lot to do in this game. His vision, creative usage of his abilities, and tendency to help both the attack and defense will all be useful for Barcelona. The Golden Boy has high expectations, and he will understandably need to live up to them.
Right-winger: Raphinha
After having arrived as a substitute in the last game, Raphinha will be fully fresh for this encounter. Moreover, his introduction in the last game gave Barcelona a new spark. This time around, Xavi will be hoping for more of the same from his Brazilian winger.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Despite the inconsistent service that he has been getting, Robert Lewandowski remains Barça’s ace. His goal-scoring numbers may have declined since last season, but he continues to be a danger man in the box whenever he seems to be present there.
Left-winger: Joao Felix
Another one of the substitute arrivals in the last game, Joao Felix also has a special connection to Porto. Having both played for them and against them in his past, he will be determined to help Barcelona get the win.
