Pedri rests, Torres starts in a 4-3-3: How Barcelona could lineup against Athletic Club

Barcelona got a much-needed win against Villarreal during midweek as a brace from Robert Lewandowski, followed by a tap-in from Ansu Fati, helped the Catalans register a 3-0 win at the Camp Nou.

While it did not change much in the league table, with Real Madrid still three points clear at the top. It does, however, bring in much-needed morale for Xavi’s men, who had a turbulent fortnight or so, following the end of the international break.

They will now turn their attention towards Athletic Club, who are set to visit the Camp Nou for gameweek 11 of this league campaign.

Ahead of the game, Barça Universal takes a look at the possible starting lineup Xavi could field tomorrow.

Starters

Following a hectic handful of games across October, and ahead of the Bayern Munich clash on Wednesday, Xavi is expected to rest a few players. This does not, however, include Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

The German has arguably been Barça’s best player this season, along with Pedri and Robert Lewandowski, and will retain his position in goal.

In defence, Eric Garcia was rested against Villarreal during midweek, but will likely return to the starting lineup in central defence. He is expected to partner Jules Kounde, whose return to the team has been nothing short of a sigh of relief.

Sergi Roberto could be benched tonight in the hopes of keeping him fresh for the Champions League game. In his place, Hector Bellerin should get the nod for his second-ever start for the Blaugranes, while Alejandro Balde rounds off the back-four on the left side.

Frenkie de Jong was one of the best performers for Barcelona vs Villarreal in a new-found role as the defensive midfielder. He should continue in that capacity tomorrow, too. There will, however, be changes in other areas in midfield.

Gavi should retain his position as one midfielders, but should be substituted during the game to maintain his health.

Pedri, in all likelihood, will start from the bench tomorrow, with Franck Kessie taking his place on the right side of central midfield. His inclusion will help shield de Jong during transitions while Gavi takes up advanced positions.

The attack is where things get confusing for Xavi. While Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati did well against Villarreal, only one of them is expected to retain their spot in the attacking trident. It should be Torres tomorrow, who seems to have picked up a smooth rhythm in the last couple of games. Moreover, keeping Fati fit for the Bayern game should be a priority.

Against a defensively solid side like Athletic Club, Xavi would want some additional creativity in the final third, which we expect to come in the form of Raphinha on the right-wing.

Predictably enough, Robert Lewandowski should spearhead the attack as the centre-forward. The Pole was on target twice against the Yellow Submarines, and will be hoping to keep that form up.

Predicted Barça XI:

Torres · Lewandowski · Raphinha
Gavi · de Jong · Kessie
Balde · Garcia · Kounde · Bellerin
ter Stegen

Substitutes

Should he start on the bench, Pedri will definitely be one of the players to come on. His ability to control the tempo of the game, find channels for runners, and, starting this season, an eye for goal, make him essential for Barcelona.

Ousmane Dembele and Ansu Fati can directly replace the starters in this potential starting lineup, and we expect them come on anytime after the 60th minute.

Sergi Roberto could be in line to get some minutes in his favoured midfield position, replacing one of Gavi or de Jong.

Should Barcelona be in a comfortable position, we cannot rule out a cameo for Pablo Torre. Xavi spoke about the youngster during his pre-game press conference, saying he will inevitably get chances, which could happen as early as today.

The post Pedri rests, Torres starts in a 4-3-3: How Barcelona could lineup against Athletic Club appeared first on Barca Universal.

from Barca Universal https://ift.tt/gEo5HRQ
via IFTTT