Casado, Rashford start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Sevilla | OneFootball

Barcelona return to La Liga action, as they prepare to host Sevilla at Spotify Camp Nou in what promises to be a crucial game in the title race.

Hansi Flick’s side currently sit at the top of the La Liga standings. 

Their position at the summit became even more significant after Real Madrid secured a win against Elche, which means Barcelona lead their rivals by just one point heading into this round of matches. 

Barcelona will head into the game following a demanding midweek fixture in the UEFA Champions League. 

The Blaugrana travelled to England to face Newcastle United at St James’ Park in the first leg of their round of 16 tie. 

The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving everything to play for in the second leg at Camp Nou.

Despite the positive result away from home, Flick must now carefully balance his squad with the Champions League return leg approaching. 

Another factor that adds extra importance to Sunday’s match is the club’s political landscape. 

It is also the day of the presidential voting process at Barcelona, making it a significant day both on and off the pitch for the club and its supporters.

Sevilla, meanwhile, arrive at Camp Nou in a very different situation. The Andalusian side currently sit 14th in the La Liga table and are still looking over their shoulder in the relegation battle. 

Interestingly, Barcelona will also be eager to settle an old score. Earlier in the season, Sevilla stunned the Catalan giants with a heavy 4-1 victory. 

However, Barcelona’s overall record against Sevilla remains strong, with the Blaugrana winning seven of the last eight meetings between the two sides.

With all of that in mind, attention now turns to how Flick could set up his team for this important fixture.

Defence

Xavi Espart could start against Sevilla. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s defensive line is likely to undergo major changes due to injuries.

Joan Garcia is expected to continue in goal despite a minor concern earlier this week. 

The goalkeeper had not trained with the main group for two days, which briefly raised doubts about his availability. 

However, those worries were quickly eased after he returned to full training yesterday and confirmed his readiness for the Sevilla match.

The bigger challenge for Flick comes in defence. Several key players are currently unavailable, forcing the German coach to look for alternative solutions.

Andreas Christensen, Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde are all dealing with injuries, leaving Barcelona short of experienced options at the back. 

Because of this situation, Flick may turn to the club’s academy once again.

Young defender Xavi Espart could be handed his first start for the senior team at right-back. 

On the opposite flank, Joao Cancelo is expected to switch to the left side to compensate for Balde’s absence.

In central defence, Gerard Martin could partner Pau Cubarsi, forming a young but promising centre-back pairing.

Midfield

The midfield could also see some adjustments.

Frenkie de Jong remains unavailable, which leaves Flick searching for balance in the middle of the pitch. 

With the Champions League clash against Newcastle still fresh in the players’ legs, squad rotation may be necessary.

Marc Casado could be given the responsibility of operating as the pivot in midfield. 

Further forward, Dani Olmo appears to be pushing for a return to the starting lineup. If he starts, it would likely allow Flick to give Fermin Lopez a rest.

Pedri is expected to complete the midfield trio. The Spanish international continues to be one of Barcelona’s most influential players, and his creativity could be crucial against a compact Sevilla defence.

Attack

Rashford could replace Raphinha. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s attack may also see a few alterations.

Flick recently suggested that Lamine Yamal could start from the bench, although such a decision would come as a surprise given the teenager’s recent form. 

The youngster has scored in Barcelona’s last two matches and has been decisive in the final third.

Nevertheless, Flick may consider rotating some attacking players ahead of the Champions League second leg.

At centre-forward, Ferran Torres could be under pressure after going nine matches without scoring. The coaching staff may consider other options if they feel the team needs a different profile in attack.

Marcus Rashford is another player who could come into the starting lineup, potentially replacing Raphinha on one of the wings.