FC Barcelona finally return to action in La Liga after a rather lengthy break due to international fixtures. Now, however, the team must shift its focus back to the games at hand and deliver with good results. Their next opponent will be Sevilla, and they will visit Barcelona at the Montjuic Stadium for the encounter.
At the moment, La Blaugrana hold a slight lead at the top of the La Liga table with a three point cushion. To preserve it, however, they will need to beat Garcia Pimienta’s side and getting all three points will definitely be the aim for Hansi Flick’s team ahead of a tough set of fixtures.
Here is how Flick’s Barcelona could line up against Sevilla.
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Inaki Pena
There will likely be a big call to make for Hansi Flick in choosing between Inaki Pena and Wojciech Szczesny. However, it seems like the Spaniard will continue to be the starting goalkeeper for Barcelona based off of the words of the German coach himself.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Despite the rumors that continue to link Barcelona to Alphonso Davies, Alejandro Balde remains the trusted left-back of the club for now. His physical attributes are undeniably a key part of what makes him a special player, and that is exactly why Hansi Flick continues to depend on him in this high-intensity set-up.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
Undoubtedly one of the best players for Barcelona this season, Inigo Martinez has found his best version yet at such an advanced stage of his career.
Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi
Alongside Inigo Martinez, Pau Cubarsi has maintained a very high level even by his standards. Both Spanish defenders have been crucial behind Barcelona’s success so far this season, and Hansi Flick will be counting on this partnership to continue strongly,
Right-back: Jules Kounde
Over on the right flank, Jules Kounde remains the guaranteed starter for Hansi Flick. The Frenchman has been an absolute rock in defense and has also improved the offensive support he provides to players like Lamine Yamal.
CDM: Marc Casado
In many ways, the biggest compliment that can be given to Marc Casado is his ability to elevate the players around him. The Spaniard possesses an immense work ethic and his dedication to helping the team win is truly a joy to behold when it comes to his tenacity and work-rate.
CDM: Pedri
The midfield maestro remains a crucial part of Hansi Flick’s team and his ability to run games is unparalleled. However, in this clash against Sevilla, Pedri will need to be precise with his passes and his distribution to open up a rather well-organized set-up.
LAM: Ansu Fati
For Ansu Fati, an opportunity against Sevilla could be a match made in heaven. While the youngster has struggled to find consistency in recent seasons, there is still always the chance to rekindle the bright young talent that he once was with the world at his feet.
CAM: Raphinha
While it is true that Raphinha has just returned from a rather demanding international break with Brazil, the in-form Barcelona forward is currently one of the only regular attackers who does not suffer from any apparent discomfort, and thus his place in the starting eleven almost seems guaranteed.
RAM: Pau Victor
Given the risk of starting Lamine Yamal due to his recent overload, it would perhaps be best to give another player an opportunity for this game against Sevilla. Pau Victor is a good shout, and the Spaniard has been patiently waiting to get an opportunity himself.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Despite his recent issues in terms of discomfort, Robert Lewandowski could be okay to start in this game. Having been the focal point of this Barcelona team in terms of scoring goals, Lewandowski will likely be relied upon to find the back of the net against Sevilla as well.