Yamal out, €28m forward in – Predicted Barcelona starting XI for UCL clash against Borussia Dortmund | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to now take on Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League again. This will be the third time that these two sides have faced each other this season in the same competition. So far, Barcelona have managed to win both prior clashes between the two teams.

However, the Catalan giants are in a good enough position right now to afford to have other bench players getting minutes or even starts if needed. With a 4-0 lead, Hansi Flick could certainly make some changes.

Here is how Barcelona could line up for the game.

Expected Line-up:

Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczesny

The Polish goalkeeper remains Hansi Flick’s first choice between the sticks, and that will likely guarantee him a starting spot in this UEFA Champions League game.

Right-back: Jules Kounde

With Alejandro Balde now injured, Hansi Flick will likely not take the risk of resting his only available starting full-back. Thus, Jules Kounde’s presence on the right flank now becomes even more important for the team.

Centre-back: Ronald Araujo

Considering the fact that Inigo Martinez is a single yellow card away from potentially missing the first leg of a hypothetical semi-final if Barcelona go through, it would make sense for Hansi Flick to rest him for this game.

In his stead, Ronald Araujo could be a good option to consider and he has the qualities to be a great defensive unit for the team.

Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi

The youngster has the ability to pick out any kind of pass from the back, and his defensive qualities are simply amazing for a player his age as well. He would be a great asset to have on the field if he does end up starting.

Left-back: Gerard Martin

With Alejandro Balde now sidelined, a lot of responsibility falls upon Gerard Martin to hold down the left flank until he recovers. Fortunately, Martin has already showcased this season that he has the quality to do that.

CDM: Frenkie de Jong

The Dutchman’s arrival in the previous match was simply game-changing. Several times this season, he has been a catalyst for Barcelona to perform at their best possible level. For that reason, he could potentially start in this game.

CDM: Gavi

Pedri desperately needs a rest now, and especially if Barcelona want to regulate the minutes that their players are involved in. Without keeping a track of that, injuries could once again become a problem for the team. Fortunately, Gavi is there to act as a great alternative option as well.

RAM: Raphinha

An effective player on either wing, Raphinha has been the best performer in the UEFA Champions League this season. His goals and assists speak for themselves, but his work off the ball has been equally vital for Barcelona during this campaign.

CAM: Fermin Lopez

In between the two wide players, Fermin Lopez has the ability to create chances and be a threat himself. He will need to finish his chances better, however, as he has struggled to do that in some of his recent appearances.

This could be a good opportunity for Hansi Flick to give some much-needed rest to Lamine Yamal. Fortunately, he has the option to make use of Ferran Torres in his stead, and the Spanish forward is a player who has undoubtedly displayed a great run of form recently.

Thus, Yamal’s potential absence could allow the €28 million-rated player, as per his Transfermarkt valuation, to get a good opportunity against Borussia Dortmund away from home.