Pedri out, €15 million player in – Predicted Barcelona starting XI for La Liga clash against Real Betis | OneFootball

FC Barcelona return to La Liga action as they now welcome Real Betis to the Montjuic Stadium. After a massive victory over Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey, La Blaugrana can now turn their attention back towards league action. However, Real Betis is definitely a side that Barcelona can not afford to take lightly.

However, with this now being the final and decisive stretch of the season, the Catalan giants needs to be careful and manage their players well. With that in mind, it would not be surprising to see Hansi Flick make a few changes here and there.

This is how Barcelona could line up for the La Liga clash against Real Betis.

Expected Line-up:

Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczesny

The Polish goalkeeper continues to go from strength to strength this season. He remains unbeaten whenever he has started for the team, and Hansi Flick will likely continue to rely on the experienced shot-stopper.

Right-back: Jules Kounde

Despite a lack of rest this season, the French defender continues to be a constant for Hansi Flick’s Barcelona. His ability to help the team both in attack and defense is a great asset, and Jules Kounde continues to be as consistent as ever.

Centre-back: Ronald Araujo

It seems reasonable to assume that Hansi Flick is still taking it easy with Pau Cubarsi. The youngster was injured during the international break and he is still yet to play a full game. Fortunately, Ronald Araujo is a more than capable option for the Barcelona coach to rely on for this game.

Centre-back: Inigo Martinez

The veteran defender is more than just an experienced defender, and he has showed that time and time again this season. Inigo Martinez possesses great leadership and a high level of technical ability as well, making him the ideal man to lead Barça’s dangerous but effective high-line.

Left-back: Alejandro Balde

Electric on the left flank, Alejandro Balde has been in sensational form this season. His presence allows the team to be much more aggressive on the left flank and his threat is something that always keeps the opposition occupied.

CDM: Eric Garcia

With Pedri having played a lot of minutes this season, this could be a game where he deserves some rest. While it is true that this game is crucial for Barça’s La Liga title charge, it must also be kept in mind that every single game moving forward must be treated like a final.

In his stead, Eric Garcia could prove to be a capable alternative option. The €15 million-rated Spanish player, as per his Transfermarkt valuation, was originally convinced by Hansi Flick to stay at the club and this is a great opportunity to trust his reliability and versatility once again.

CDM: Frenkie de Jong

There is simply no denying the fact that the Dutchman has made himself a vital piece of Hansi Flick’s team. The composure and quality he brings to the midfield is simply unmatched, and his presence always elevates Barça’s overall quality.

RAM: Lamine Yamal

The young Barcelona sensation continues to possess qualities that can turn the tide of any game. Against Atletico Madrid, it was his magical assist that gave Barça the winning goal, and he has produced several such moments of magic throughout the season.

CAM: Gavi

With Dani Olmo still out injured, Hansi Flick has had to rely on alternative options as his attacking midfielder. Fermin Lopez is also a good option, but this game feels like a situation where Gavi could be given an opportunity to shine.

A rather quiet performance from Raphinha in the last game against Atletico Madrid was certainly not something that the player had in mind. However, if he does end up starting here, he has a chance to fully regain and display his typical level and quality.

The Barcelona ace seems to be finding his form again, and the team really needs to have him scoring the goals. In the crucial stretch of the season now, Robert Lewandowski will really need to step up for La Blaugrana.