FC Barcelona arrive in Hamburg to take on the challenge of Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League. The Catalan giants face off against their Ukrainian opponents in order to clinch qualification through to the next stage.
A victory would guarantee the desire of La Blaugrana that has been lingering since a few seasons. Hoping to go through to the Round of 16 as safely as possible, they will also want to ensure that they do so while being first in Group H.
A neutral venue in Germany will be witnessing an encounter that will see Barcelona go there all. Xavi Hernandez himself has addressed the lack of intensity in recent games, so Barcelona will look to improve and showcase some newfound dynamism in this encounter.
With the match set to start soon, FC Barcelona have thus unveiled their official starting XI.
Goalkeeper
In goal, Marc Andre Ter Stegen resumes his position as the starting goalkeeper for Barcelona. The German veteran will be hoping to keep another clean sheet and ensure that Shakhtar are not allowed any more room to thwart Barça’s goals than necessary.
Defense
Over to the defense, Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo accompanies Danish defender Andreas Christensen as the central duo. On their flanks, Joao Cancelo returns to his natural position to occupy the right-back position while Marcos Alonso starts on the left.
Midfield
Heading into the midfield, Oriol Romeu starts as the side’s primary pivot and will look to lock down the midfield and maintain control. As his interiors, both Gavi and Ilkay Gundogan will look to initiate attacks and help out in controlling the game as much as possible.
Forwards
Lastly, the frontline of the team consists of three forwards. Robert Lewandowski starts as the primary central figurehead in the attack. On his sides, the wings are covered with the talents of Raphinha and Ferran Torres on the right and left respectively.
