FC Barcelona travel away for their next La Liga fixture, a short trip to Girona. Regarded as a Catalan derby, the match promises entertainment and offers three crucial points for La Blaugrana to claim.
After all, this is Barça’s game in hand over Real Madrid, and they will need a win to return to the top of the table. Fortunately for Hansi Flick, Raphinha will likely feature, but he still needs to field a strong starting eleven, which may not include the Brazilian.
Here is how Barça could line up for this game.
Predicted Barcelona XI vs Girona:
Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia
The Spanish goalkeeper will want to forget his mistakes from the previous game and focus on helping the team in this match. He is essentially guaranteed to start.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
Despite inconsistencies, he remains Hansi Flick’s preferred option on the right flank. The Frenchman continues to start regularly, and the German coach values his involvement.
Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi
The young defender has been somewhat inconsistent this season, but at his best, he is a crucial asset. Believing in his quality, Flick is expected to start him here.
Centre-back: Eric Garcia
Although recently suspended in the Copa del Rey, that suspension does not affect his participation in La Liga. For this reason, it seems likely Flick will include him in the starting XI.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Despite his speed and ability to navigate tight situations, he clearly needs to improve his final product. Still, Flick will likely start him here.
CDM: Frenkie de Jong
With Pedri still unavailable, many essential midfield duties fall to Frenkie de Jong, who is more than capable of handling them.
CDM: Marc Bernal
It was surprising not to see Marc Bernal in the previous game against Atletico Madrid, but perhaps that absence convinced Flick to trust him here.
RAM: Lamine Yamal
Consistently delivering for Barcelona, Lamine Yamal has been a regular starter under Flick since his arrival. The young winger is guaranteed to start against Míchel’s team.
CAM: Dani Olmo
Although not particularly impactful against Atletico Madrid, Olmo remains a player capable of creating dangerous opportunities. His quick thinking and ability to operate in tight spaces could prove useful.
LAM: Roony Bardghji
Even with Raphinha available, Flick may avoid risking his fitness by starting him. Roony Bardghji could provide a creative and dribbling option on the wing instead.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Considering Ferran Torres’s ineffectiveness in the previous game, it may be time to start Robert Lewandowski. The Polish veteran often attracts significant attention, which could create space for his teammates.
