FC Barcelona look set for their next encounter in La Liga, one that could be season-defining. Knowing that first place in the Spanish league is now almost an impossible dream, Barça have to focus on the next best possible end goal. The end goal in this particular scenario for Barcelona would be to finish second in La Liga.
However, to do that, Xavi’s Spanish giants will need to face off against their Catalan neighbors and emerge victorious. Girona, currently among La Liga’s finest, will be the opposition they have to overcome. For Barcelona, in many different ways, this match is their most crucial encounter of the season now, and they should suit up accordingly.
Here is how Barcelona could line up against Girona.
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen
Barcelona need to have their best players at their best level against Girona, and thus it becomes pivotal that Marc-Andre Ter Stegen is at his very best and is one of them. His shot-stopping and ball-playing can prove to be crucial against a Girona side that will be well-tuned to stay in shape and be compact.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
The French defender continues to fill the void on the right flank for Barcelona. His presence generates a lot of defensive cover, and he has also proven himself to be more than capable of doing a good job offensively as well.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
Recent weeks have been hard for Ronald Araujo, and understandably so. With the media continuously either attacking his performances or linking him to a move away from the club, his actual displays have suffered. However, he still remains a guardian angel for Barcelona when they need him most.
Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi
In terms of a ceiling, Pau Cubarsi continues to prove himself to be limitless. His ball-playing, coupled with his defensive excellence, are two very vital pieces of the puzzle for Xavi’s Barcelona.
Left-back: Joao Cancelo
The Portuguese fullback is another player who has faced a lot of criticism recently. However, he continues to play with faith and determination, and that is what remains the most positive aspect about his character.
CDM: Andreas Christensen
As a pivot, Andreas Christensen has adapted better than all those around him. He provides both defensive cover and a physical presence in the midfield that Barcelona so desperately needed.
CM: Ilkay Gundogan
The German veteran midfielder continues to offer both experience and proven quality for Barcelona. His utility has been consistent, and it is no secret that he still remains one of the most used players at Xavi’s disposal.
CM: Fermin Lopez
With Frenkie De Jong injured and Pedri being treated with caution, Fermin Lopez has stepped up and made the third spot in the midfield his own. Relentless in his pursuit to give Barcelona both energy and goals, the 20-year-old has truly come into his own during this final phase of the season.
Right-winger: Lamine Yamal
The wondrous talent of Lamine Yamal continues to light up football’s grandest stages. His unbalancing nature, eye for goal, creativity, and other assets enable him to be one of the most potent weapons that Barcelona can use.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
With a hattrick in his last game, Robert Lewandowski is coming into this game with great motivation. The Polish striker will want to add to his goal tally against Girona as he continues to target the Pichichi award at the end of the Spanish season.
Left-winger: Raphinha
The Brazilian winger may lack the guarantees of continuity that other players have, but he remains a constant for Barcelona on a sporting basis this season. His performances have shown great levels of improvement recently, and they continue to offer Barça great joy.
