Barcelona play their first home game of the 2024-25 La Liga season on Saturday against Athletic Club at Montjuic.
The game sees former boss Ernesto Valverde face Barca once again, while the Catalans will also come up against summer transfer target Nico Williams.
Barcelona enjoyed a 2-1 win in their opener against Mestalla and will be hoping for another three points at Montjuic in what looks to be another tricky test for Hansi Flick’s side.
Here’s how we think they will line up on Saturday night.
Defence
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It seems unlikely there will be many changes to Flick’s starting XI for the game but the new coach does have options available to him defensively.
Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez could continue in the heart of the defence, although Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia are also available.
On the flanks, expect Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde to continue, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen will obviously start in goal.
Midfield
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Flick will be forced into changes in midfield with Ilkay Gundogan set to leave and join Manchester City. Pedri will likely to take his place in the side, although Fermin Lopez is also an option after returning from training.
Marc Casado and Marc Bernal both started against Valencia and Flick may be inclined to continue with the duo here. He did test Eric as a pivot last time out which means he may also be an option for the midfield.
Dani Olmo missed the trip to Mestalla as he’s not registered and the new signing may have to sit twiddling his thumbs again on Saturday.
Attack
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Robert Lewandowski started the season with a brace against Valencia and will hope to continue that scoring streak against Athletic. Raphinha and Lamine Yamal look set to continue alongside the Pole for this one.
Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Kounde, Cubarsi, Iñigo, Balde; Bernal, Casadó; Yamal, Pedri, Raphinha; Lewandowski (4-2-3-1)
How do you think Barcelona should line up against Valencia? Let us know your thoughts, predictions and teams in the comments below!
