Barcelona predicted line-up for the game against Elche | OneFootball

With their attention firmly back on La Liga, FC Barcelona can afford no margin for error at this stage of the season. With just a single point separating them from the team in second place, every fixture now carries added weight, and the upcoming clash against Elche is no exception.

Playing away from home only increases the importance of getting the details right. To secure all three points, Barcelona will need a well balanced and reliable starting XI. Fortunately for Hansi Flick, he has a strong pool of options available and the German coach is expected to field a competitive side.

Here is how Barcelona could line up for this encounter.

Predicted Barcelona starting XI for Elche clash:

Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia

Joan Garcia has firmly established himself as the first choice between the posts. Hansi Flick’s trust in the young goalkeeper has been evident throughout the season and his consistent performances have justified that faith. In a potentially tricky away fixture, his composure and shot stopping will be key.

Right-back: Jules Kounde

Gradually improving, Jules Kounde is starting to put in more consistent displays again. His partnership with Lamine Yamal remains strong, and his awareness seems to be getting better as well. This match presents another opportunity for him to build on that momentum.

Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi

Although his recent displays have not been his strongest, Pau Cubarsi remains an important part of Flick’s defensive structure. His ability to play out from the back and his familiarity with the system make him a valuable option in central defense.

Centre-back: Gerard Martin

Gerard Martin has quietly put together a run of solid performances this season. Reliable and disciplined, he offers stability in the heart of the back line and could form an effective partnership alongside Cubarsi for this fixture.

Left-back: Alejandro Balde

Alejandro Balde’s pace and directness on the left flank make him a constant attacking outlet. His ability to stretch the opposition defense will be useful against Elche, although he will also be expected to remain defensively focused throughout the match.

CDM: Eric Garcia

Eric Garcia continues to be one of Hansi Flick’s most trusted players. Even when his influence is not immediately obvious, his positional discipline and understanding of the tactical plan often provide balance to the team. He is likely to be relied upon again in this role.

CDM: Frenkie de Jong

Fresh after serving his suspension in the UEFA Champions League, Frenkie de Jong should return with renewed energy. His ability to control the tempo and progress the ball through midfield could be crucial in breaking down Elche’s defensive shape.

RAM: Lamine Yamal

Lamine Yamal remains one of Barcelona’s most exciting attacking weapons. His creativity and unpredictability allow him to change games in an instant and his presence in the starting XI would add a constant threat on the right side.

CAM: Fermin Lopez

Fermin Lopez offers Barcelona an additional goalscoring presence from midfield. His late runs into the box and eye for goal have made him a valuable asset and his recent form strengthens his case to start this match.

LAM: Raphinha

Raphinha brings intensity, experience, and directness to Barcelona’s attack. In a high pressure away game, his leadership and decisiveness could prove vital, particularly when the match demands urgency and aggression.

Reports have recently suggested that Ferran Torres could start this game, and he would replace Robert Lewandowski in the process. Not a bad idea necessarily, as it would give the Spaniard a much-deserved opportunity while the Polish veteran gets some rest.