FC Barcelona are set to take on Chelsea in London in their upcoming UEFA Champions League clash. Scheduled to take place at Stamford Bridge, it is certainly a game that could end up going either way for both teams.
Unfortunately, Hansi Flick will have to make up a game plan for this encounter without Pedri’s help this time around. Still, he does have more than enough quality in his squad to field a starting eleven that can create issues for Chelsea.
Here is how Barcelona could line up for this European battle.
Predicted Barcelona Line-up vs Chelsea:
Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia
Having returned to the starting eleven in the previous game against Athletic Club, Joan Garcia already managed to keep a clean sheet. This time around, against a more formidable side, he will look to do the same again.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
A much better performance from Jules Kounde in his previous outing, the Frenchman seems to be finally finding his groove again. If he keeps up his performances like that, Barça are surely in for a treat.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
Considering the physicality and intensity that Chelsea will show in this game, perhaps Ronald Araujo could be a good option to start in defense for Barça.
Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi
The young defender is rarely ever intimidated by any kind of opponent, and he always seems to perform well against strong opponents thanks to his pinpoint ball-playing ability.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
A dangerous asset on the left flank, Alejandro Balde can be a real menace on his day. For this game, Flick will be hoping that his Spanish left-back is up for the challenge.
CDM: Eric Garcia
With Pedri still not back, perhaps it is Eric Garcia who will be given the honor of helping out Frenkie de Jong in midfield. Thankfully, he has proven his quality in big games in the past, so he is definitely a player who can be trusted.
CDM: Frenkie de Jong
Suspended for Barça’s previous game in La Liga, Frenkie de Jong will most certainly be available for selection in this European clash, and he will most certainly play a very important role in this game.
RAM: Lamine Yamal
What a sensational football player, and he continues to amaze with his performances. He will have a big test in this particular game, but Lamine Yamal has all the quality in the world to come out on top.
CAM: Fermin Lopez
Always lethal in front of the goal and a constant headache for opposition defenders and goalkeepers, Fermin Lopez will likely play a crucial part in this game.
LAM: Marcus Rashford
Unavailable in the previous game, Marcus Rashford is now likely to feature in this one. His record in the UEFA Champions League has been solid so far, and that should be a big boost for Barça.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Currently in red-hot form, the Polish ace has been enjoying his recent performances. Fortunately for Barcelona, that is exactly the kind of momentum they would want their ace striker to have for this big clash.
