Barcelona set for rotation as they face Real Racing Club in Copa del Rey | OneFootball

After lifting the Spanish Super Cup, FC Barcelona return to action this Thursday as they face Real Racing Club in the Copa del Rey Round of 16. The Blaugranes, eager to defend their cup title, travel to the Segunda División leaders who recently suffered a surprise home defeat against Real Zaragoza.

While Barcelona remain heavy favorites, Hansi Flick is expected to rotate his squad and give opportunities to less regular players. SPORT has provided a forecast of what changes to the regular starting lineup can be expected for this game.

One of the key questions ahead of the match is the goalkeeper position. Both Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczesny are available alongside Joan Garcia.

Ter Stegen played in the Copa del Rey Round of 32 against C.D. Guadalajara in a surprise move by Flick and could feature again, though Szczesny is also an option, especially with Ter Stegen’s potential winter transfer in play.

In defense, Ronald Araujo could take a more prominent role. The Uruguayan was given a few minutes in the Super Cup final and impressed under pressure. With Andreas Christensen unavailable due to injury, Araujo may start or come off the bench to strengthen the backline.

The midfield will also see significant changes. Frenkie de Jong is suspended, while Pedri and Fermin Lopez are expected to be rested.

This opens the door for Marc Bernal, Marc Casado, and Dani Olmo to start. Bernal and Casado have already featured in the last cup game, while Olmo may start after having recovered from his shoulder injury.

In attack, Marcus Rashford and Roony Bardghji are expected to lead the line. Both players are likely to occupy the wings, with the responsibility of creating chances and impressing Flick for more regular roles.

Lamine Yamal could be involved as well, continuing his integration into different attacking positions, while other regular forwards such as Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres may be rested.

Barcelona will travel to El Sardinero with a mix of experience and youth, aiming to advance in the Copa del Rey while giving key squad members a chance to shine. Flick’s rotation policy will be closely watched as the Blaugranes look to maintain momentum after their Spanish Super Cup success.