Official: Barcelona starting lineup to face Vissel Kobe | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have officially announced their starting lineup for the friendly match against Japanese side Vissel Kobe, marking the beginning of their pre-season tour in Asia.

After two weeks of intense training at the Ciutat Esportiva and an uncertain trip to Japan, the Catalans are finally ready to take the field again.

It is expected that Barcelona are not just aiming to prepare for the new season but also to build momentum early, even in friendlies.

The spotlight will naturally fall on the new signings, but this match is also about seeing familiar names back in action.

After a long summer without the Club World Cup, fans are eager to watch stars like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski return to the pitch.

As expected, Joan Garcia will make his debut in goal. In defence, Barcelona will stick to a reliable setup.

Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi will form the heart of the backline. Alejandro Balde continues to be the first-choice at left-back, with Eric Garcia lining up on the right.

The midfield is set to feature a strong trio. Gavi, now fully fit and injury-free, will start alongside the ever-reliable Pedri and Fermin Lopez, forming a technically gifted midfield unit.

This means Frenkie de Jong, Dani Olmo and Marc Casado will make an appearance late in the game.

All eyes will be on Marcus Rashford, Barcelona’s latest signing. However, the English forward will play a secondary role for now.

Manager Hansi Flick has decided to stick with his tried-and-tested attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres.