Barcelona predicted starting XI against Atletico Madrid | La Liga | OneFootball

A demanding away fixture awaits FC Barcelona as they prepare to face Atletico Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. With the international break now behind them, the focus sharpens once again on La Liga, where every remaining match carries significant weight in the title race.

Their last visit here exposed some of those weaknesses, particularly in moments where concentration dropped, and Atletico capitalised. This time, however, Barcelona arrive as a more complete side.

That said, this fixture will still demand near perfection. Atletico’s ability to disrupt rhythm and force uncomfortable situations makes team selection crucial. Flick’s choices will need to strike a balance between technical security and physical resilience.

Here is how Barcelona could line up.

Predicted Barcelona XI vs Atletico Madrid

Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia

The Spanish goalkeeper continues his good run of form, but he struggled the last time he played at this stadium. This time around, he will need to be even more aware and alert to avoid those same mistakes.

Right-back: Eric Garcia

A true soldier, no matter where he plays on the field, he remains one of Hansi Flick’s most trusted players and for good reason. In a game such as this, Garcia’s intensity and strength could prove to be useful.

Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi

Always capable of picking out the right passes, Pau Cubarsi’s presence in defense brings much more stability and composure to this young Barcelona side. Having him there ensures a much smoother transition from defense to attack.

Centre-back: Gerard Martin

The Spaniard has clearly worked on his ball distribution skills, and it is opening up the way for La Blaugrana to do a lot of damage to their opponents. Beyond that, his defensive skills continue to be solid as well.

Left-back: Joao Cancelo

Always a threat irrespective of the flank he plays on, Joao Cancelo has the ability to create chances out of nothing. In this game, that could be a useful asset for Barça.

CDM: Marc Bernal

With Frenkie de Jong still out injured, Marc Bernal remains the main contender to start alongside Pedri in midfield. Fortunately, he has proven that he has the quality to deliver on the biggest stages.

CDM: Pedri

Barça’s metronome in midfield, Pedri, can completely change the tempo of any game. With him available, the team will need to perform around him as he dictates proceedings.

RAM: Lamine Yamal

Continues to deliver on the biggest stages, Lamine Yamal will be ready for this big fixture. Even though Raphinha will be unavailable, the young Spanish winger has the quality to decide games by himself.

CAM: Fermin Lopez

Always a threat from the central areas of the midfield, Fermin Lopez has a knack for finding the back of the net. In a game like this, his presence could prove to be crucial as well.

LAM: Marcus Rashford

This is the time for Marcus Rashford to step up, considering the fact that Raphinha is currently sidelined. Keeping in mind that this is exactly why he was brought in, the English winger needs to perform accordingly.

Scored two crucial goals in the last meeting against Newcastle United, and it proved that Robert Lewandowski can deliver when he is needed. Hopefully, he can do more of the same in this game as well.