After a much-needed return to winning ways in La Liga with a dominant victory away to Mallorca in midweek, Barcelona are back on the road for another monster test against Real Betis at the Benito Villamarín this weekend.
Barça looked close to its best version in the second half, and will look to build on that performance to earn three more points against a historic rival that always gives them a monster test in front of their awesome home crowd, even during a season in which Betis aren’t exactly at their best.
Here’s how we think Hansi Flick will line up his troops for Saturday’s battle.
Defense
Rcd Mallorca V Fc Barcelona - Laliga Ea Sports Photo By Ricardo Larreina/Europa Press via Getty Images
The month of December is all about huge games in La Liga and the Champions League, so expect Hansi Flick to pick his best XI with as little rotation as possible to keep the team competitive.
The starting backline of Iñaki Peña in goal and Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez and Alejandro Balde looked back to its best against Mallorca with a very effective offside trap, and they’ll need to continue playing their best until Ronald Araujo is given the medical green light to make his debut and add more depth at the back.
Midfield
FC Barcelona v Stade Brestois 29 - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images
Marc Casadó’s return gave more energy and intensity to the center of the pitch, and his reunion with Pedri in the double pivot also improved the quality of Barça’s passing and creativity against Mallorca.
The two will likely start together again in this one, with the number 10 position being the only doubt. Dani Olmo is the first choice if he’s fully fit, but Gavi and Fermín López will be ready to go if Olmo can’t start.
Attack
FC Barcelona v UD Las Palmas - La Liga EA Sports Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images
Lamine Yamal is back and all is right in Barcelona’s world. The teenager was the driving force in the Blaugrana’s second half explosion in midweek and continues to show just how special and decisive he is. Keeping him fully healthy is the challenge, but Yamal himself said after the Mallorca game that his ankle is 100% and he feels really good again.
The teenager will undoubtedly start this one, and Robert Lewandowski is expected back in the lineup after being rested for the entire 90 minutes against Mallorca. Raphinha assumed the scoring responsibilities without Lewy on the pitch in midweek, and the Brazilian’s confidence remains sky-high as he continues his incredible form.
Possible XI: Peña; Kounde, Cubarsi, Iñigo, Balde; Casadó, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski (4-2-3-1)
How do you think Barcelona should line up against Betis? Let us know your thoughts, predictions and teams in the comments below!