FC Barcelona v Athletic Club - LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27
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Renato Gonçalves Renato Goncalves is the deputy manager of Barca Blaugranes and has been writing for the site since all the way back in 2014. He’s a massive sports fan and has been crazy about Barcelona ever since Rivaldo scored that bicycle kick in 2001.
Barcelona look to continue their strong start to La Liga as the Catalans will try for a third straight win when they welcome Rayo Vallecano to Camp Nou.
Here’s how we think Hansi Flick will line up his troops for Monday’s battle:
Defense
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images
We are not expecting too many changes, if at all, from the team that played so well against Athletic. Hansi Flick likes to keep the rhythm going when things are going well, and we’re still too early in the season to think about rotations.
There could be a change at the back, however, with Gerard Martín coming out of the side and Andreas Christensen starting at center-back alongside Pau Cubarsí. Eric Garcia seems to be Flick’s favorite choice for the starting right-back spot, and Xavi Espart is simply playing too well and deserves to remain at left-back.
Midfield
Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images
Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images
Midfield is expected to remain unchanged with Marc Bernal at the pivot and Pedri starting a second straight game along with Fermín López, who has been absolutely on fire to start the season. Rodri and Dani Olmo will be fighting for their spots soon enough, but they’re still not quite fully fit enough to play from the start.
Attack
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Anthony Gordon made his full debut against Athletic Club and had a fantastic performance, and he’ll likely stay in the team for this one. Lamine Yamal played all 90 minutes in midweek and will get another start to continue building his fitness, and Raphinha looks very comfortable as a striker and will start once again up top.
Possible XI: Joan; Eric, Cubarsí, Christensen, Espart; Fermín, Bernal, Pedri; Yamal, Raphinha, Gordon (4-3-3)
How do you think Barcelona should line up against Rayo Vallecano? Let us know your thoughts, predictions and teams in the comments below!