Barcelona finally welcomes the Spotify Camp Nou grand reopening against Athletic Club, with Hansi Flick ready to unveil several key changes.
The occasion is momentous for the club and its fans, with around 45,000 supporters expected to witness this historic homecoming.
The Blaugrana will look to mark their long-awaited return with a strong performance and a vital victory, although the task is far from straightforward.
For this match, Barcelona’s lineup will be shaped significantly by injuries and suspensions, resulting in several key absentees from the squad, as reported by Diario Sport.
In goal, Joan Garcia makes his anticipated return to full fitness and will start between the sticks, providing a crucial boost to Barcelona’s defensive stability, which has appeared vulnerable at times this season.
The defensive line is expected to feature Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde as the full-backs on the right and left flanks, respectively, with Pau Cubarsi and Ronald Araujo likely partnering in central defense, as Eric Garcia may be deployed in midfield.
Barcelona’s midfield will be heavily impacted, with Pedri and Frenkie de Jong unavailable due to injury, and Gavi ruled out, leaving the team light in the centre of the park.
Young prospect Marc Casado is expected to start alongside Eric Garcia, who will be utilized for his versatility. Fermin Lopez is projected to fill the attacking midfield role, ahead of Dani Olmo.
In attack, despite Raphinha’s return from injury, he is not yet ready for a start, and with Marcus Rashford sidelined due to illness, Ferran Torres may be shifted to the left wing.
Robert Lewandowski continues as the centre-forward, leading the line with his recent impressive form.
On the right wing, Lamine Yamal will look to dazzle the home crowd in only his second appearance at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona faces a crucial challenge to deliver a performance worthy of this special occasion, combining experience and youthful energy in their bid to secure three points on their home turf once again.
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