FC Barcelona is set to face Benfica on Tuesday, January 21, in a crucial Champions League group stage match. The encounter, part of the seventh round in the 2024/25 competition, will take place at Lisbon’s Estádio da Luz. With 15 points from six matches, Barcelona has already secured a spot in the tournament's Top 8, bypassing the Round of 16. However, the team trails Liverpool, who lead the group with a perfect 18 points.

Pressure to Maintain Momentum

While Barcelona’s Champions League campaign has been promising, their domestic form tells a different story. The team’s recent 1-1 draw against Getafe further dents their La Liga aspirations, overshadowing earlier triumphs such as their 5-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final and a commanding 5-1 win against Real Betis in the Copa del Rey Round of 16. Meanwhile, Benfica is fighting to secure their place in the knockout stages, needing positive results in their final two group matches.

Squad Concerns

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick faces significant challenges, including key player absences. Dani Olmo is sidelined with a right soleus muscle strain, while Iñigo Martínez, Marc-André ter Stegen, and Marc Bernal remain unavailable due to injuries.

One major talking point has been the inclusion of Ansu Fati in the squad. After a frank discussion with Flick, where the coach suggested Fati should seek a winter transfer due to limited opportunities, the young forward has nonetheless been called up to travel with the team.

Barcelona’s Traveling Squad

Flick's 24-man squad for the Benfica clash includes:
Goalkeepers: Iñaki Peña, Wojciech Szczesny, Ander Astralaga Kochen
Defenders: Marc Cubarsí, Alejandro Balde, Ronald Araújo, Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, Eric García, Héctor Fort
Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Gavi, Pablo Torre, Fermín López, Marc Casadó, Pau Víctor
Forwards: Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Ansu Fati, Gerard Martín

Despite injuries and internal uncertainties, Barcelona aims to build on their strong European form. A victory against Benfica would not only strengthen their position in the Champions League but also restore some much-needed confidence as the team navigates a challenging season.