Pau Cubarsi Returns To The Stating Eleven | 4-2-3-1 Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs Alaves | OneFootball

Barcelona ended their group stage of the Champions League with a 2-2 draw against Atalanta. Their next challenge lies against Alaves in the La Liga at home this weekend. They cannot afford to drop any points as they are trailing Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid on the points table.

Hansi Flick’s side will try to be ruthless on Sunday though they have struggled to break the barriers against a low-block side. This game will also set up the momentum for their upcoming quarter-final round against Valencia in the Copa del Rey.

4-2-3-1 Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs Alaves

Defence

Hansi Flick has already indicated who’s going to be the primary goalkeeper and hence, Wojciech Szczesny continues between the sticks. Right-back Jules Kounde had an average game and will look to redeem himself this weekend.

While Ronald Araujo is retained at the heart of the defence, Pau Cubarsi should come in place of Eric Garcia to pair up with him. Left-back Alejandro Balde starts another game for FC Barcelona.

SEVILLE, SPAIN – JANUARY 21: Jules Kounde of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Betis and FC Barcelona at Estadio Benito Villamarin on January 21, 2024 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Midfield

Marc Casado is likely to be called up by Flick to be deployed in the middle of the park alongside Pedri. It means that Frenkie de Jong will have to warm the bench at the initial whistle.

Lamine Yamal is going strong on the field and he is operating on the right flank yet again. As Dani Olmo isn’t fully fit, Gavi starts as the attacking midfielder with Raphinha providing his services from the left-hand side of the pitch.

Robert Lewandowski leads the front line and will be desperate to find the back of the net.

Marc Bernal, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Andreas Christensen are long-term absentees while Dani Olmo and Inigo Martinez are on the road to recovery and might not feature this week.

4-2-3-1 Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs Alaves