Araujo, Casado start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Elche | OneFootball

After Real Madrid’s 4-0 win over Valencia, the pressure on Barcelona has intensified like never before this season. 

The Catalans now find themselves seven points adrift of the league leaders, and with every game becoming a potential turning point, tonight’s fixture against Elche has turned into a must-win encounter.

Barcelona have been through a difficult run lately, suffering three defeats in their last five games, a sequence that has shaken confidence both in the dressing room and among supporters. 

However, history is on their side. The Blaugrana have won their last ten matches against Elche and have never lost to them at home.

The big boost for Flick comes in the form of returning stars Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo, both of whom rejoined training this week following injury layoffs. 

While the duo is expected to make the matchday squad, the manager will likely take a cautious approach, using them as substitutes rather than rushing them back into the starting XI.

Defence

Pau Cubarsi could be rested. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

In goal, Wojciech Szczesny is expected to retain his place as Joan Garcia continues his recovery from a knee injury. 

The coaching staff do not want to risk the young Spaniard prematurely, especially with several key fixtures lined up in November.

The defensive setup might see some adjustments. Jules Kounde remains the undisputed choice at right-back, offering both stability and attacking support. 

At centre-back, Pau Cubarsi could be given a rest after spending most of this week in the gym rather than on the training pitch, though his absence is not injury-related. 

This opens the door for Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia to form the central pairing. 

On the left flank, Alejandro Balde is set to continue, providing pace and width down the defensive line.

Midfield

The midfield remains Flick’s biggest concern, with Pedri sidelined for several weeks. 

Frenkie de Jong, one of the most reliable figures in the squad, will be expected to step up as the heartbeat of the midfield. 

Marc Casado, whose work rate and tactical awareness have impressed in recent weeks, could slot in beside him to provide balance.

Further ahead, Fermin Lopez looks set to keep his place as the attacking midfielder. 

Dani Olmo, even if declared fit, will likely begin on the bench, gradually regaining rhythm after his spell out.

Attack

Rashford will want to extend his scoring figure. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

In attack, Flick is likely to rely on the flair and dynamism of Lamine Yamal on the right flank. The teenager continues to impress with his maturity and technical brilliance. 

Marcus Rashford, currently riding a wave of confidence, will take up position on the left wing, while Ferran Torres could spearhead the attack in the absence of a fully-fit Lewandowski.

The veteran striker will be among the substitutes, with the coaching staff expected to give him limited minutes as he works his way back to full sharpness.

For Barcelona, there is no margin for error. A slip-up tonight could widen the gap to Real Madrid even further, putting their title aspirations under serious threat. 

But with the return of key players, the Catalans will be eager to show they are far from out of the race.