Gavi out, €50 million player in – Predicted Barcelona starting XI for UCL clash against Borussia Dortmund | OneFootball

A big game arrives for FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League as they take on Borussia Dortmund. With both sides now among the final eight teams in the competition, there is a lot at stake in this first leg. However, at least for this first encounter, Barcelona do have the home advantage.

Moreover, given how crucial this tie is for Barça’s progression, it seems quite likely that Hansi Flick could opt to field a very strong eleven. After all, all remaining teams in the Champions League will now be fighting for everything with all the resources that they have to offer.

Here is how Hansi Flick could line up his Barcelona team for this fixture.

Expected Line-up:

Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczesny

The Polish veteran remains the first choice goalkeeper for Barcelona, and there is no denying the great levels of consistency that he has showcased. With him in the starting eleven, Barça are yet to taste defeat this season.

Right-back: Jules Kounde

Still going strong without rest, French defender Jules Kounde shows no signs of stopping any time soon. His versatility has turned him into a great asset for his team this season, and Hansi Flick really seems to count on him.

Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi

The youngster, despite his age, has already tussled with some of the best players that European football has to offer. More often than not, he has come out on top and perhaps Hansi Flick could put the same kind of trust and faith in him this time around as well.

Centre-back: Inigo Martinez

Not having been involved in the previous game against Real Betis as a precaution, Inigo Martinez should now be fully fit and available to start for Flick’s team.

Left-back: Alejandro Balde

Perhaps his decision-making could still be improved, but Alejandro Balde has rightfully secured himself a position among the world’s finest left-backs. He possesses all the qualities to be a real headache for Borussia Dortmund to deal with.

CDM: Frenkie de Jong

The Dutchman possesses many great qualities, but it is the fact that his presence fully unlocks this Barcelona team. He provides balance and stability, and Hansi Flick’s team could definitely use that.

CDM: Pedri

There is simply no player more important for Barcelona than Pedri when it comes to regulating and controlling the game. His ability to always pick out the right pass and also help out defensively are just some of the traits that make him so impactful.

RAM: Lamine Yamal

The 17-year-old Barcelona prodigy possesses the ability to create magic out of nowhere, and that quality on its own makes him a wonderful asset to have. For such a big game, there is simply no way that Flick does not count on him.

CAM: Fermin Lopez

On the big occasions, Fermin Lopez tends to shine in the UEFA Champions League. With his dynamism and intensity, he could be the alternative that Hansi Flick opts to field in place of the injured Dani Olmo.

Gavi is also a possible option for Flick to consider, but Fermin Lopez seems to thrive more in that central attacking midfield role. The €50 million-rated midfielder, as per his Transfermarkt valuation, could be just the right man for the job.

Despite having to suffer a rather rough return to club action, Raphinha remains as committed as ever to succeed. The Brazilian winger seems likely to start this game, and he will need to continue his fine form in the Champions League to make an impact.