FC Barcelona return to La Liga action with the mission to reclaim their top spot. To do that, they will need to win against Real Oviedo, and this is a game that the Catalan giants simply cannot afford to slip up in.
For this reason, Hansi Flick is expected to field a strong starting XI. Fortunately, most key players are available for the clash, with the exception of Pedri, [who got injured in the last game](https://semprebarca.com/alarm-bells-at-barcelona-as-pedri-suffers-right-hamstring-issue/) and is expected to be out for around a month.
Here is how Flick could field his team to Real Oviedo, at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Predicted Barcelona XI vs Real Oviedo:
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**Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia**
The Spanish goalkeeper remains the number one in between the sticks at the club, and the coach will definitely be trusting him to keep Real Oviedo at bay.
**Right-back: Jules Kounde**
Despite his inconsistencies, the Frenchman remains a solid option for Barcelona on the right flank. However, he will need to stay alert and sharp to avoid giving away any easy opportunities if he starts.
**Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi**
Having rested in the previous game, Pau Cubarsi should be ready to start this fixture. Flick will be expecting the young defender to deliver a solid performance, given that it is a chance for him to find his best version again.
**Centre-back: Gerard Martin**
Almost always a reliable option in defense, this might be a good opportunity for Hansi Flick to start him alongside Cubarsi and give Eric Garcia a well-deserved rest.
**Left-back: Alejandro Balde**
On the left flank, Alejandro Balde needs to be doing more than he has shown so far this season. The young left-back has all the talent in the world, but his output has not reflected that well so far this season.
**CDM: Frenkie de Jong**
The Dutchman remains a guarantee in midfield, especially with Pedri sidelined for now. Frenkie de Jong’s role in the team thus becomes even more important, and he will need to step up in the upcoming games.
**CDM: Marc Bernal**
With Pedri injured, there is a vacant spot in midfield that needs to be filled. Many players at the club would relish such an opportunity, but perhaps Marc Bernal should get the nod this time, and deservedly so.
**RAM: Lamine Yamal**
After having been rested in the previous game due to a suspension, Lamine Yamal is available again, and the young winger should definitely be starting this game for Barça.
**CAM: Fermin Lopez**
[Praised by Flick himself ahead of the game](https://semprebarca.com/every-word-from-hansi-flicks-pre-match-press-conference-ahead-of-real-oviedo-vs-fc-barcelona/), the Spaniard continues to impress. His ability to change the outcome of any game out of nowhere is something that makes him quite unique.
**LAM: Raphinha**
The Brazilian always adds that extra intensity and drive that Hansi Flick’s team needs to play their kind of football, and his availability will be crucial for them here.
**Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski**
Found the back of the net in the last game with a superb finish, and he should be ready to start this game for Barça as well.