A grand test for FC Barcelona makes its way to Catalonia in the form of FC Porto. Kickoff for Matchday five of the UEFA Champions League group stage is not too far away, and Xavi’s men will have to be eager and hungry if they hope to come out of this clash with a positive result.
Playing at home at the Montjuic Stadium, Barcelona will need to play with both pride and determination. Xavi is well aware of the danger that Porto poses, and knows the capabilities of his own team. With both sides tied on 9 points each in Group H, this clash could decide many futures.
The notable absences of Marc Andre Ter Stegen and Gavi are both understood problems for Xavi Hernandez. Despite that, the Spanish manager has decided to field a strong XI, as the official FC Barcelona lineup confirms.
In goal, Spanish goalkeeper Inaki Pena starts for the second game in a row. Ter Stegen’s back problems continue to keep him sidelined, while the 24-year-old Pena will now get to protect the Barcelona goal once again. With the help of his defense, he will hope to ensure Barça’s goal remains protected.
Speaking of the defense, Xavi has opted to deploy a backline of four defenders. The central channels are guarded by Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo and Spaniard Inigo Martinez. Martinez’s adeptness at playing the ball, combined with Araujo’s defensive reliability, should make them an effective pairing.
The fullback positions are covered by Frenchman Jules Kounde and Portuguese star Joao Cancelo. The latter occupies the left-back position while Kounde takes on the role of right-back.
In the midfield, Ilkay Gundogan returns to the starting XI after having started from the bench last time out. The German midfielder will occupy the pivot position while his interiors, Pedri and Frenkie De Jong, will look to both support him and the frontline as well.
Lastly, the attack is spearheaded by Polish striker Robert Lewandowski. The Pole is hoping to return to his scoring ways and he will be accompanied by two wingers on either side of him.
On the left wing, Joao Felix returns after playing in the Rayo game as a substitute. The other winger will be Raphinha, who takes over from Lamine Yamal.