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Hansi Flick Has His Starting XI Ready to Beat Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey Final
Barcelona has dominated Real Madrid this season, winning both matches played between the two rivals. Now, Hansi Flick is aiming for a third straight victory over the Merengues, and to achieve that, he already has his lineup set for the Copa del Rey Final, scheduled for April 26.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the starting XI used in the recent match against Mallorca provides a clear indication of Hansi Flick’s plans to face Carlo Ancelotti’s side—though a last-minute surprise is still possible.
Defense and Midfield Nearly Locked In
Jules Koundé and Pau Cubarsí were rested for the game against Mallorca, with their focus clearly on the Copa del Rey Final. They are expected to be joined in the back line by Gerard Martín, who played 30 minutes, and Iñigo Martínez.
In midfield, Frenkie De Jong stepped aside from his usual holding role, a move that virtually guarantees him a spot in the final’s starting XI, alongside the ever-present Pedri. In this setup, Gavi would likely be left out compared to the lineup used against Mallorca.
Uncertainty in Attack, But Options Abound
The attacking midfield role remains the biggest question mark. Dani Olmo is now fit again after recovering from an injury that sidelined him since Matchday 27 of La Liga EA Sports. Hansi Flick has managed his minutes with care: 4 minutes against Dortmund, 31 against Celta, and a return to the starting lineup versus Mallorca. All signs point to him being at peak fitness for the final.
Up front, few doubts remain. Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, both benched against Mallorca, are expected to start on the wings. With Robert Lewandowski injured, Ferrán Torres is the leading candidate to play as Barcelona’s number nine—a role he knows well in Copa del Rey competition. Still, there's a possibility that Dani Olmo could be deployed as a "false nine," opening the door for Fermín López to start.
This will be the eighth Copa del Rey Final between Barcelona and Real Madrid. The Blaugrana will be aiming for their 32nd title, while the Merengues hope to claim their 21st.