De Jong, Lamine start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Villarreal | OneFootball

FC Barcelona will bring down the curtains on what has been a memorable 2025 with an away La Liga fixture against Villarreal at Estadio de La Ceramica.

The Blaugrana have opened up a four-point lead at the top of the league table, although Real Madrid can cut it down by the time the reigning champions take the field against Marcelino’s men.

So, Hansi Flick & co. will treat the game at El Madrigal as a must-win so that they can go into the mid-season break with a healthy advantage in the league.

Momentum is on their side as Barça are currently on a six-game winning streak across all competitions, bouncing back in style since the disappointing defeat to Chelsea in the Champions League.

However, leading up to the game, Barcelona have been dealt a fresh fitness blow as key midfielder Pedri has been ruled out of the trip to Villarreal due to mild muscle discomfort. Beyond that, Ronald Araujo, Dani Olmo and Gavi remain unavailable.

Robert Lewandowski, who was not fully fit for the Copa del Rey clash against CD Guadalajara, is expected to be at 100% heading into the Catalans’ final game of the year.

With that in mind, here is how Flick will set his team up against Villarreal, with a number of changes expected from the midweek cup tie.

Defence

Marc-Andre ter Stegen made a surprise start in goal against CD Guadalajara this past Tuesday, but Hansi Flick has made it clear that Joan Garcia is his No. 1 in goal and should reclaim his spot for tomorrow’s La Liga clash.

Meanwhile, Jules Kounde should return to the team slotting in at right-back, where Marc Casado filled in during the cup game. On the opposite side, Alejandro Balde should reclaim his place from fellow La Masia talent Jofre Torrents.

Gerard Martin has excelled as a centre-back. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Pau Cubarsi has been a permanent fixture at the heart of the Barcelona defence whenever fit and available, and will start against Villarreal. Partnering the Spanish international will be Gerard Martin, who has been a revelation in his new role as a left-sided centre-back.

Midfield

Pedri’s absence comes as a bitter blow for Barcelona, but Barcelona expect him to be unavailable for only one game, which will be a relief.

In his absence, the onus will fall on Frenkie de Jong to dictate proceedings from the middle of the park for the reigning La Liga champions.

The Dutchman has recently lost his starting spot after missing a few games through illness and personal reasons, and will be eager to make a mark. Partnering the Barça captain will be versatile star Eric Garcia, who has become Flick’s most-trusted lieutenant on the pitch.

Finally, Fermin Lopez will take up the No. 10 position for Barcelona, hoping to provide attacking impetus and energy in the final third.

Attack

Lamine Yamal is a guaranteed starter for Barcelona and will be raring to go at Estadio de La Ceramica – a venue where he has an impressive record.

The Spanish international will be supported in the final third by Brazilian superstar Raphinha, who will be keen to prove a point on the field after being shockingly snubbed for the FIFA The Best Men’s World XI for 2025.

Ferran Torres will spearhead the Barça attack as the No. 9, ahead of Robert Lewandowski, and hope to end the year on a high.