Official: Barcelona starting XI against Valencia | Copa del Rey | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to kick off their crucial Copa del Rey clash against Valencia soon. Away from home this time around, the Catalan giants already know that the atmosphere will definitely be an intense one. However, if Hansi Flick’s Barcelona has showcased one thing this year, it is the ability to take on any obstacle.

Yet, it was simultaneously true that the German coach would need his strongest eleven possible for this game. That is why, ahead of the game itself, Hansi Flick’s official starting eleven has proven itself to be just that.

Here is the official lineup that the Barcelona coach has decided to field for the clash against Valencia.

Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny will be the player starting in net for Barcelona. He has convinced Hansi Flick enough to be his number one choice in between the sticks, and the veteran will be looking to thwart Valencia’s chances as much as possible in this game.

Up ahead of him, the centre-back partnership will be formed by Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia. They will be looking to stop any progression that the opposition wants to make, while also being tasked with ensuring that they can play the ball out from the back.

On their flanks, Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde will be the players tasked with covering the wide channels of the pitch. Beyond just being required to go up and down the field, they will also need to exhibit good decision-making to ensure good progression both offensively and defensively.

In the heart of the midfield, the two defensive midfielders will be Pedri and Frenkie de Jong. With their combination of technical quality and control, Barcelona can expect a game where they have more composure in the midfield and can use it to open up spaces in the opposition’s structure.

Right in front of them, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha will be the forwards covering the wings. They will be looking to use their skills to thwart the Valencia goal while also creating opportunities for other teammates. Linking them and others in between them, however, will be Fermin Lopez right behind the centre-forward.

Up top, Ferran Torres will be the player starting as the primary centre-forward for the team. In a game as intense and as important as this, he will need to make sure that he is clinical and does not waste any good chances that come his way.