Barcelona head into tonight’s decisive match against FC Copenhagen knowing that nothing short of a victory will do.
In this regard, according to journalist Santi Ovalle in El Larguero, manager Hansi Flick has already tested a clear starting XI in training.
The line-up trialled by Flick reflects both necessity and intent, as the German is dealing with several key absences and has responded by leaning into attacking balance and midfield mobility.
The starting XI Flick tested
The team tested in training featured Joan Garcia in goal, with a defensive line made up of Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martín, and Alejandro Balde.
In midfield, Flick appears ready to trust energy, technique, and goals rather than pure control.
Eric García would anchor the midfield, supported by Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez. Further forward, the attacking trio would consist of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski.
Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona
Flick has given a hint of his starting XI. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Barcelona’s situation leaves Flick with little room for experimentation, as Frenkie de Jong is suspended, while Pedri, Gavi, and Andreas Christensen are all unavailable through injury.
On top of that, Joao Cancelo remains ineligible for European competition until the next round.
There are some positives
One positive for Flick is the availability of Ferran Torres.
While the forward is not expected to start, he is likely to play an important role off the bench, offering pace and finishing in the latter stages as Barcelona look to increase their goal margin.
Furthermore, the midfield partnership of Olmo and Fermin looks set to be central to Flick’s plan.
Olmo is expected to operate slightly deeper, helping with progression and covering for Pedri’s absence, while Fermín will play closer to the box, arriving late into dangerous areas.