Official: Barcelona name starting XI for Athletic Club clash | Spanish Super Cup | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to kick off their game against Athletic Club soon in Saudi Arabia. A big game for both teams, it is one which Hansi Flick’s team simply cannot afford to lose and they will want to deliver a big performance.

Fortunately for the German coach, most of his squad is available even though Lamine Yamal will be starting from the bench this time around. Still, he has managed to field a strong eleven for this game.

Here is the official starting line-up for the Catalan giants.

In goal, Joan Garcia starts for La Blaugrana after a massive performance against RCD Espanyol. His presence was always going to be a guarantee, and he will look to stop Athletic Club whenever possible.

Ahead of him, Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia form the centre-back partnership for the team. Both players will need to be alert to ensure that the high line works effectively, and also to distribute the ball efficiently.

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On their flanks, Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde start together. Both players will need to help out in attack and defense as much as possible, and they will have a big task ahead of them.

In midfield, Frenkie de Jong and Pedri start together as well. Barça’s most trusted double-pivot, and it seems to be clear enough that they are both needed if the team wants to overcome this challenge.

Ahead of them, Raphinha and Roony Bardghji will play on the wings while Fermin Lopez operates as the central attacking midfielder in between them. All of them will need to be alert and make sure that they thwart the Athletic Club goal as much as possible.

Lastly, in the centre-forward position, Ferran Torres starts for Barcelona. Hansi Flick seems to be trusting the Spaniard with this big responsibility, and he will need to make it count.