Fermin, Casado start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Brest | OneFootball

Barcelona will face Brest at Montjuic in a crucial match for their Champions League campaign. This game is part of the fifth round of the tournament, and it holds significant importance for the Blaugrana.

A win is essential for Barcelona to remain in the top eight of their group, which would guarantee them a direct spot in the last 16 of the competition.

After their recent struggles in La Liga, including a loss to Real Sociedad and a disappointing draw against Celta, the team needs a strong performance to regain momentum.

Hansi Flick will have to manage without Lamine Yamal, who is still recovering from ankle problems.

Alejandro Balde will also miss out on the starting XI, as he has been ruled out by the coach. With these absences, Barcelona will be forced to adjust their starting lineup for this important match.

Defence

In goal, Inaki Pena will continue as the first-choice goalkeeper for Barcelona. Despite a recent shaky performance from some players, Pena has remained a reliable figure in the net.

In defence, while it might seem unlikely at first, there is a possibility that coach Hansi Flick could choose to rest Jules Kounde. The French defender showed signs of fatigue during the match against Celta, which led to a crucial mistake in the final minutes of the game.

Although it seemed like a mental rather than a physical issue, Kounde may benefit from some time off.

However, with Balde’s absence and Gerard Martin failing to impress against Celta, it is also possible that Kounde will keep his place in the starting lineup.

At centre-back, Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez will remain key players, continuing to provide strength in the backline. On the left side of the defence, Hector Fort may be given a chance to replace Martin, adding fresh energy to the team.

Midfield

This could be Barcelona’s playing XI against Brest.

In midfield, it is expected that Pedri and Marc Casado will form a central partnership for Barcelona. Pedri, who has been excellent this season, was moved into a more advanced role during the game against Celta.

However, this shift in position affected the team’s ball movement, as they struggled to control possession effectively. For this reason, the midfield star will likely return to a deeper role where he can influence the game more efficiently.

Gavi, who is still recovering from a serious knee injury, is not yet fit enough to play a full match so soon after his return. As a result, he will most likely start on the bench.

Casado, on the other hand, will play an important role in this match. Although he is suspended for Barcelona’s upcoming match against Las Palmas, he is available for the Champions League clash against Brest.

The attacking midfield role could go to Fermin Lopez, who has shown promise and will be tasked with supporting the attack while also helping to control the game’s tempo.

His energy and creativity could be key for Barcelona in breaking down Brest’s defence.

Attack

In the attack, Robert Lewandowski is an automatic choice up front. The Polish striker has been in fantastic form, already scoring 20 goals this season. His clinical finishing will be crucial for Barcelona if they are to secure a much-needed win in this game.

Furthermore, Raphinha has been in excellent form, showcasing his skills and ability to unlock defences, making him an obvious starter.

On the left side, Dani Olmo might keep his spot despite some difficulties in the match against Celta. Olmo’s ability to create chances and contribute to the attack is vital, so he is expected to retain his place in the starting lineup.

With Barcelona needing a win to stay on track for the knockout stages of the Champions League, Flick will need to make the right decisions regarding his team selection.