Christensen, Casado start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Athletic Club | OneFootball

With the La Liga title already wrapped up and no pressure on the final match, Hansi Flick has some flexibility in selecting his team against Athletic Club.

The German boss may use this chance to rotate the squad, reward younger players, and manage the fitness of his core group.

Still, this does not mean he will field a weak team. Barcelona are determined to finish strong, and this fixture could see a mix of experience and youth on display.

The Catalans boast the best away record in La Liga this season, collecting 42 points from 18 matches. With 99 goals already scored, there is motivation to cross the 100-goal mark and finish the campaign on a high.

Flick’s team won the reverse fixture 2-1 earlier this season, and Athletic Club have not beaten Barça in the league since August 2019. All signs point to another big night for the champions.

Let’s look at how Flick could line up for this season-ending clash.

Defence

Andreas Christensen could start for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

There could be some key changes across the backline. Marc-Andre ter Stegen is expected to start in goal. Though Wojciech Szczesny is still awaiting a contract renewal, Flick seems likely to stick with his first-choice keeper for the final outing.

In defence, Hector Fort could return at right back, with Eric Garcia likely to be rested. The centre-back pairing may consist of Pau Cubarsi and Andreas Christensen, unless the coach decides to give Inigo Martinez a run.

On the left side, Alejandro Balde is expected to start again, returning from injury and regaining match sharpness.

Midfield

Casado is in line to return to the starting XI. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Midfield will likely see some fresh legs. Marc Casado may get his first start since recovering from injury, which would be a great boost for the young talent.

Pedri is expected to keep his place, as Flick continues to rely on the midfielder’s vision and control. Fermin Lopez, who has impressed whenever given chances, could also feature from the start.

Frenkie de Jong and Dani Olmo are expected to be rested, with their workload managed carefully after a long season.

Attack

In attack, Barcelona are without Ferran Torres, who recently underwent surgery for appendicitis. Ansu Fati is close to a move to Monaco and is unlikely to be involved.

The attacking trio has a job at hand. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

This opens the door for Flick to rely once again on the trusted trio of Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha.

Yamal, playing his final game as a minor, will want to finish his breakout season in style. Lewandowski, although out of the running for the top scorer award, is still chasing a personal goal: reaching 100 career goals for Barcelona.

Meanwhile, Raphinha, who recently renewed his contract, is set to continue on the right wing and will be eager to make an impact.

While this may be a low-stakes game on paper, Flick and his team have every reason to treat it seriously.

Reaching the 100-goal milestone, maintaining their strong away form, and giving game time to fringe players make this an important fixture to round off a successful season.