How Barcelona could line up against Villarreal CF | OneFootball

A big clash in La Liga awaits FC Barcelona as they take on third-placed Villarreal CF away from home. Considering the importance of this fixture and Barça’s desire to secure all three points, Hansi Flick is expected to start a strong XI for the encounter.

Unfortunately, there are some absences, as Andreas Christensen and Pedri will not be available due to different reasons. Still, Flick has excellent options at his disposal to field a competitive team.

Here is how Barça could line up against Villarreal.

Predicted Barcelona Line-up vs Villarreal

Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia

The Spanish goalkeeper got some much-needed rest against CD Guadalajara and should be expected to return to the starting XI for this upcoming game.

Right-back: Jules Kounde

Somewhat inconsistent in terms of his displays this season, but Jules Kounde remains one of the best right-backs in world football and simply needs to find his best version on a more consistent basis again.

Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi

With Pau Cubarsi starting, Barça almost always have an extra passing outlet available to distribute the ball to and receive from as well. His line-breaking passes are essential to how this team plays, and Flick will be hoping for more of them in this upcoming game.

Centre-back: Gerard Martin

Ever since his transition into a left-sided centre-back, Gerard Martin has proven that Barcelona can trust him to perform in that position even against tough opponents. Fortunately, he is ready to start this game as well.

Left-back: Alejandro Balde

Thanks to his pace and ability to dominate the left flank, Barça should be able to rest assured that they will have a very potent offensive threat on that flank, who also has great recovery pace.

CDM: Eric Garcia

So far this season, it has seemed that Flick really trusts Eric Garcia to start regularly for the team. The Spaniard definitely has intensity and dedication, and those are important assets for the way this team plays.

CDM: Frenkie de Jong

With Pedri unavailable for this game, which is a massive blow by itself, Barça can at least rest assured that Frenkie de Jong is available and ready to start.

RAM: Lamine Yamal

The young Spanish winger continues to amaze and dazzle with his skills, and this is yet another big game where he will be expected to perform. Fortunately, he has the quality to ensure that he delivers.

CAM: Fermin Lopez

There is always an added sense of danger from Barça’s offensive lineup whenever Fermin Lopez is on the pitch, and that is mainly due to his eagerness to find the back of the net. Starting him could give the team that much-needed extra edge.

LAM: Raphinha

Fortunately, the Brazilian forward managed to get a good amount of rest in the previous game against CD Guadalajara. As such, he should be ready to start this game with his usual intensity.

Centre-forward: Ferran Torres

Enjoying a good run of form this season, Ferran Torres has consistently managed to find the back of the net against various opponents. He could be a real option for Hansi Flick to start in this La Liga clash.