FC Barcelona and Real Madrid are now set to play against each other in the Copa del Rey final. A massive occasion for both sides, it will see the two El Clasico rivals battle it out for a major trophy. While Barcelona have already won a final against Los Blancos this season, they will need to do it again.
While there are certain players who are expected to miss this game, Barça have enough talent to field a strong starting eleven. Keeping in mind recent games and performances, a safe assumption can be made regarding what players Hansi Flick will ultimately choose to go with.
Here is how Barcelona could line up against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final.
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczesny
The Polish goalkeeper is likely to be the starter for Barcelona in this game. While Marc-Andre Ter Stegen is back as well in the squad, the veteran goalkeeper who has been playing consistently this season will more than likely retain his place.
Right-back: Gerard Martin
One of the biggest concerns for Barcelona heading into this match is undoubtedly the absence of Alejandro Balde. However, despite Hector Fort’s solid performance against RCD Mallorca, Hansi Flick will likely field Gerard Martin in this game to start.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
A true general in the defensive structure for Barcelona, Inigo Martinez leads the team by example. His ability to pick out clever passes is impressive, but his defensive resilience and determination are some of his best traits.
Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi
There is simply no denying the technical expertise of Pau Cubarsi, and his defensive quality only adds to his impressive profile. He will be crucial in this game if he ends up as a starter.
Left-back: Jules Kounde
After finally getting some rest against RCD Mallorca, the Frenchman should be ready to start this game. He has been consistent across the entire season, and this is a game where he will need to be at his best once again.
CDM: Frenkie de Jong
In many ways, Frenkie de Jong enables those around him to play at a higher level. His season has been impressive so far, and he seems to have finally turned his situation around at Barcelona.
CDM: Pedri
The architect and orchestrator of Barça’s impressive season so far, Pedri is at the heart of what makes this team so good. For the team, it is essential that the Spanish midfielder is as involved as possible during this crucial final.
RAM: Lamine Yamal
There is very little doubt over whether or not Lamine Yamal will start this game as he is essentially always the first name on the list. For this game, his magic will be desperately needed by Barcelona.
CAM: Dani Olmo
Heading into this match, one of the biggest headaches for Hansi Flick will be the central attacking midfielder position. Both Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo offer their own unique strengths, but the latter may just get the nod for this particular clash.
LAM: Raphinha
Clearly one of the biggest contenders for the Ballon d’Or this season, Raphinha has been exceptional throughout this campaign. Moreover, his record against Real Madrid in particular is one that automatically makes him a starter for this game.
Centre-forward: Ferran Torres
With Robert Lewandowski out injured, his place will likely be taken by Ferran Torres. The Spaniard has been great this season in terms of efficiency and making the most of his minutes so far, and this game could be a big opportunity for him if he starts.
