Two Barcelona stalwarts will return to starting lineup for must-win game vs Napoli
After a hard-fought narrow win against RCD Mallorca on Friday, FC Barcelona return to action on Tuesday in perhaps their most important game of the season as they take on Napoli in the UEFA Champions League.
Having been held to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Round of 16 tie by the Italian champions, Barça must need a victory tomorrow in Montjuic to progress to the quarterfinals of the competition.
Given the club’s situation, both sporting and financial, it is of utmost importance to make it through to the final eight of the Champions League, but getting past a Napoli side in upbeat mood might not be simple.
Stalwarts to return
Having opted to make some interesting changes for the game against Mallorca last week, manager Xavi Hernandez is expected to recall his best players to the lineup against Napoli, reports SPORT.
As such, two of the most important players in the team, Ronald Araujo and Robert Lewandowski, will be a part of the starting XI for Barcelona against the Partenopei.
Araujo missed the game against Mallorca as he was suspended for an accumulation of cards. Lewandowski, on the other hand, was given a breather by the manager, with Marc Guiu getting a start as the striker on Friday night.
But the pair will return to the side on Tuesday night in Montjuic, hoping to help Barça see off Napoli.
Araujo will have the gargantuan task of holding off the dangerous Victor Osimhen, while Lewandowski, who was on target in the first leg, will be aiming to find the back of the net again.
Who else will play?
Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s presence in goal is certain for tomorrow while Jules Kounde and Joao Cancelo have the full-back positions locked in. With Araujo returning, Xavi will have to choose between one of Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez as his partner.
In midfield, Andreas Christensen and Ilkay Gundogan are certain starters having been doing well in recent matches. With no Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, it leaves Barça short-handed with reports suggesting that captain Sergi Roberto is expected to occupy the third position.
Lewandowski will start up top and will have Lamine Yamal for support. The final position on the left flank is a dilemma for Xavi as he will have to figure out whether to opt for a forward like Joao Felix or go with a four-man midfield formula by starting Fermin Lopez instead.
