The 4th Official
·28 January 2025
In partnership with
Yahoo sportsThe 4th Official
·28 January 2025
Barcelona, who was struggling a bit in the La Liga fixtures recently, finally managed to extract a positive result. They registered a 7-1 victory over Valencia to keep their hopes for the domestic title alive and also send a statement to other sides.
The Spanish side will next lock horns with Atalanta in the Champions League at home. Hansi Flick’s side is already qualified for the next round, which means that they can take his fixture on a lighter note and keep the main guns fresh enough.
Defence
Hansi Flick has already hinted that Wojciech Szczesny will be preferred over Inaki Pena and the experienced veteran could again be starting between the sticks. It remains to be seen if right-back Jules Kounde will get some rest or not.
Eric Garcia was played over Ronald Araújo alongside Pau Cubarsi at the heart of the defence. However, the Uruguian should be returning into the XI. Alejandro Balde is likely to continue as the left-back in the side.
BARCELONA, SPAIN – MARCH 12: Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between FC Barcelona and SSC Napoli at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on March 12, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Midfield
Marc Casado could be rested for this fixture to keep him fresh for upcoming games. Frenkie de Jong should pair up with Pedri, who missed the previous game due to an illness.
Attack
Though Fermin Lopez was absolutely brilliant against Valencia, Gavi might get the nod to operate as the attacking midfielder. While Lamine Yamal is an automatic pick for the right flank role, the presence of Raphinha is also a certainty.
Ferren Torres started as the number nine and did well to find the back of the net. However, Robert Lewandowski will start this game and will be hoping for another impactful contribution.
4-2-3-1 Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs Atalanta