FC Barcelona will lock horns with CD Leganes in La Liga on Sunday night in Montjuic, in a game that could see the return of a key figure to the starting XI.
Barça have recovered a number of injured stars in recent weeks with Ronald Araujo and more recently Ansu Fati being the ones returning from their spell on the sidelines.
Araujo in line to start
According to AS, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is contemplating a significant change in the lineup, with Araujo potentially starting at the expense of Pau Cubarsi. Gavi could also feature in the starting eleven, replacing Dani Olmo.
In his press conference ahead of the upcoming match against Leganes, Flick hinted that rotations could be on the cards. He even suggested that he might start Araujo, though he would need to discuss the decision with the player.
Even though Araujo has been sidelined for nearly five months due to injury and returned to the squad only earlier this week against Borussia Dortmund, AS reports that the option of him starting against Leganes is gaining momentum.
First start in over five months for Araujo? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
If the Uruguayan international does start, it is likely that Cubarsi will be rested. The plan would be for Araujo to not play the entire match but rather feature for around 60 to 70 minutes at most.
Gavi also likely to gain a starting berth
Another player who may benefit from these rotations is Gavi. The La Masia midfielder could be included in the starting XI vs Leganes, partnering Pedri and Marc Casado in midfield.
Dani Olmo is expected to be the player sacrificed to make way for Gavi, although there are is a possibility that Pedri could be given a breather as well, considering his heavy workload this season.
The final decision will be made after the morning activation session on Sunday, as the coaching staff evaluates the situation.
Either way, Gavi, who is working his way back to peak fitness after almost a year out through an ACL injury, could be poised for a starting berth tomorrow.