Barcelona head into their subsequent La Liga conflict with confidence as they put together to face Villarreal away from house. The Catalan giants want to lengthen their good begin to the season by securing a sixth consecutive victory.
Apparently, they’ve a robust file at Villarreal’s stadium, a spot the place they haven’t tasted defeat in over 17 years.
Nonetheless, Barcelona’s job is made barely tougher as a result of a variety of accidents within the workforce. However with a gruelling schedule forward, Flick has determined to rotate his squad.
Whereas Marc-Andre ter Stegen retains his place in purpose, Sergi Dominguez begins in central defence, on the expense of Pau Cubarsi. The younger defender is all set to associate the veteran Inigo Martinez on the coronary heart of Barcelona’s four-man backline.
There’s a change within the wider defensive place as nicely. Whereas Jules Kounde retains his spot at right-back, Gerard Martin begins forward of Alejandro Balde on the alternative flank.
Within the midfield, Flick has opted for Eric Garcia and Pablo Torre to occupy the double pivot positions.
This could possibly be an fascinating alternative for Torre, as he appears to be like to capitalise on a formidable pre-season marketing campaign and show a degree to Flick.
Additional up the pitch, Pedri will proceed in his function because the workforce’s attacking midfielder. His involvement will probably be important in unlocking Villarreal’s defence and creating alternatives for his teammates.
On the wings, Raphinha and younger sensation Lamine Yamal will present width and tempo. Each gamers have been in high-quality kind not too long ago, contributing with assists and objectives.
Their primary focus will probably be to provide Barcelona’s primary striker, Robert Lewandowski, with high quality service. Lewandowski, as at all times, would be the focus of Barcelona’s assault, aiming so as to add to his purpose tally and assist the workforce safe one other three factors.
Regardless of the accidents and suspension, Barcelona’s line-up stays sturdy, and they are going to be keen to keep up their profitable momentum in opposition to Villarreal.