Barcelona finally get the opportunity to kick things off in 2024 against their first opponents. La Blaugrana need this opportunity to prove to themselves and their fans that they have what it takes to be better. However, their very first opponents are UD Las Palmas, a very formidable side.
Xavi’s side does not intend to add another poor result to their rather disappointing catalogue this season. Currently sitting 10 points behind both Real Madrid and Girona, Barcelona must make use of their game in hand.
With the squad list officially released, there is a fair idea of which players Xavi can actually deploy in the game. Moreover, given that the integrity of the league season is at stake, Xavi will likely field a strong eleven.
Here is how Barcelona could line up against UD Las Palmas.
Expected Lineup:
Goalkeeper: Inaki Pena
With Ter Stegen still in recovery, Inaki Pena will continue as the team’s first goalkeeper for now. He has had his fair share of heroic performances already this season, and while Barcelona will be hoping another one is not needed, he has the quality to pull it off if needed.
Right-back: Joao Cancelo
The Portuguese star has been one of the most creative and effected players for Barcelona this season. While there are undoubtedly moments of defensive vulnerability, he more than makes up for it through his offensive contributions and creativity.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
In terms of pure defensive prowess, arguably no other Barça defender is as important as Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan is also a lethal force in the air, and his presence always enables the entire team to play with the required confidence.
Centre-back: Jules Kounde
While Jules Kounde has perhaps lacked a bit of his usual composure in recent outings, he still remains a proven star. His quality on the ball as well as his reading off the ball combine to make him a great asset for Barcelona.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Despite his poor start to the season, Alejandro Balde seems to have gained back Xavi’s trust. The electric youngster, on his day, is almost unplayable for opponents. His lightning-fast speed is a great weapon for Barcelona to exploit against Las Palmas.
CDM: Ilkay Gundogan
Barcelona still do not possess a quality pivot who specialises as one. However, they do have Ilkay Gundogan, who is also exceptionally talented when it comes to his creativity and vision.
CM: Sergi Roberto
The hero for Barça when it came to playing against Almeria last time out, he scored a brace and could have had even more goals. Sergi Roberto is normally not the first name on the team, but his recent performance warrants him another chance.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
Missing in the last game due to suspension, and it showed in the way Barça played. Frenkie De Jong is a key pillar of this Barcelona team and helps the team perform at an incredible level. His composure, ball progression, vision, and creativity are all excellent attributes that help the team significantly.
Right-winger: Raphinha
The Brazilian winger may not be the most composed when it comes to making important decisions on the field, but he still is a capable winger. His crosses, long-range shooting ability, and even his set pieces, are all valuable and have provided some great opportunities for Barça to exploit.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
For now, Robert Lewandowski remains the team’s undisputed star striker. Even though his numbers this season do not mirror his contributions from last season, he still has the quality that he needs to bring out. However, now that Vitor Roque has arrived, the Pole needs to step up.
Left-winger: Ferran Torres
Joao Felix is reportedly going to be benched for this game, and only Ferran Torres seems like a natural replacement. With his deceptive runs, composure, and a newfound hunger, Torres can be a great addition to the left-wing for Barcelona.
