Barcelona predicted starting XI against Atletico Madrid | UCL | OneFootball

The UEFA Champions League returns for FC Barcelona as they look to take on a familiar opponent. Atletico Madrid, set to take on La Blaugrana at the Spotify Camp Nou, is not an opponent that Hansi Flick’s team can afford to underestimate.

For that reason, and given the competition’s importance, Barça will look to go all out here. Keeping that in mind, Flick will likely field his strongest possible eleven in this game.

Here is how Barça could line up for this fixture.

Predicted Barcelona Line-up vs Atletico Madrid

Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia

The Spaniard has proven time and time again this season that he was worth the investment that Barça made in the summer. Now, in games like this, he needs to prove it once again.

Right-back: Jules Kounde

It seems likely that the Frenchman will start this game, considering the lack of options and the fact that he seems to be ready to start as well. Fortunately, his presence provides good cover on Lamine Yamal’s flank.

Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi

The young defender has quietly started to regain his level from last season, and it continues to show itself. However, he will need to be even more alert and attentive in this game.

Centre-back: Gerard Martin

Alongside Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin has established himself as a key player in Hansi Flick’s system. Thanks to his defensive skills and his ball-playing abilities, he has proven himself to be a great addition to this team.

Left-back: Joao Cancelo

One way or another, Joao Cancelo always seems to have the quality to open up defenses by himself. In a game like this, his magic will be necessary to hurt Atletico Madrid.

CDM: Eric Garcia

With Marc Bernal and Frenkie de Jong both unavailable for this game, Hansi Flick will likely entrust Eric Garcia with a big responsibility in midfield. Fortunately, he has proven that he can do a job there if needed.

CDM: Pedri

Through his creativity and magic, Pedri has the ability to deconstruct and disrupt any opposition’s structure. In a game such as this, he will need to showcase his best possible version.

RAM: Lamine Yamal

One of the few players in world football who can change the complexion of a game all by themselves, Lamine Yamal will need to deliver a top performance in this game.

CAM: Dani Olmo

He seems to be more effective against low blocks, and considering Atletico Madrid’s typical approach to games against Barcelona, this match might be a good opportunity to start Olmo.

LAM: Marcus Rashford

The English forward proved that he could hurt Atletico Madrid in the previous game, and he will need to step up in Raphinha’s absence.

Proved to be decisive in the last game against Atletico Madrid, and Hansi Flick could decide to make use of the Polish veteran in this game as well.