Official: Barcelona starting lineup against Real Betis | Copa del Rey | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are back in action again today, just three days after their spectacular Spanish Super Cup triumph, as they take on Real Betis in the Copa del Rey Round of 16.

As the Blaugrana get set to play their first game of 2025 in Montjuic, manager Hansi Flick has announced the starting lineup that will face Manuel Pellegrini’s side.

In a major decision, Flick has opted to go into the game without a natural centre-forward as Robert Lewandowski has been benched.

In his place, Dani Olmo gets the nod today, with this being his first start after the registration saga. The Spaniard is expected to line up as the false nine while Raphinha and Lamine Yamal continue out in the wide areas.

Meanwhile, Frenkie de Jong starts, at the expense of Marc Casado. Pedri and Gavi have held on to their places in the starting lineup.

Ronald Araujo starts at the back in the absence of Inigo Martinez, partnering up with Pau Cubarsi. Gerard Martin replaces Alejandro Balde at left-back while Jules Kounde continues on the right. Inaki Pena returns in goal with Wojciech Szczesny suspended.