Barcelona’s Possible Lineup vs PSG in the UEFA Champions League
Hansi Flick gets a key player back for the Champions League clash, although defensive absences will force Barcelona to improvise against PSG.
Hansi Flick gets Raphinha back for one of Barcelona’s toughest games of the season. The Brazilian is expected to return to the starting XI for Barcelona against PSG in the UEFA Champions League after overcoming the physical issues he brought back from Brazil.
His return clears up much of the uncertainty in attack. Lamine Yamal is also certain to start, while Anthony Gordon is expected to complete the front line ahead of Karim Adeyemi.
Flick’s biggest problem is much further back. The absences of Jules Koundé and Eric García, along with Andreas Christensen’s injury, have left Barcelona short of options in defense.
Flick Will Have to Rebuild His Defense
Joan García is expected to start in goal, but the back four in front of him could look very different from Barcelona’s usual setup.
Pau Cubarsí is a lock at center-back, while Gerard Martín has improved considerably in recent hours and is expected to recover in time to partner him. João Cancelo would start at right-back, with academy product Xavi Espart on the left.
Alejandro Balde’s limited role in recent weeks gives Espart a strong chance of keeping his place.
Fermín or Olmo Is the Big Midfield Question
Further forward, the picture is much clearer. Rodri and Pedri are expected to start in midfield, with the third spot still up for grabs.
Fermín López and Dani Olmo are competing for that place. Fermín appears in the projected XI, although Flick still has enough options to make a late change.
There are fewer doubts in attack, where Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Anthony Gordon are expected to form the front three.
Barcelona’s Possible Lineup vs PSG
Possible Formation (4-3-3):
Joan García; João Cancelo, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Xavi Espart; Rodri, Pedri, Fermín López; Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Anthony Gordon.
The Decisions That Could Shape Flick’s XI
- Raphinha is back and expected to return straight into the starting lineup.
- Injuries to Koundé, Eric García and Christensen force Flick to reshape his defense.
- Fermín López and Dani Olmo remain the main question in midfield.
