Barcelona will probably be aiming to increase their successful run firstly of the 2024/25 season once they go to Girona in a Catalan derby on Sunday afternoon.
The Hansi Flick period has acquired off to a flawless begin with Barcelona successful all 4 of their La Liga matches thus far. They’re assured to complete matchday 5 on the prime of the desk, with no different facet having secured greater than two victories – together with fierce rivals Actual Madrid.
Nevertheless, Girona are the hardest check that they’ve confronted below their new boss. Michel’s outfit certified for the Champions League in 2023/24 and beat Barca 4-2 dwelling and away, ending simply 4 factors off them within the last standings.
Barca are undoubtedly going to be made to work to maintain their excellent file intact on the Estadi Montilivi.
Right here is how Flick may line his facet up for Sunday’s encounter.
GK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen – Even in Barca’s 7-0 hammering of Actual Valladolid earlier than the worldwide break, Ter Stegen wanted to make an enormous save within the first half to safe a primary clear sheet of the season. He is not been excellent this time period however he is nonetheless able to vital stops.
RB: Jules Kounde – Kounde was a shock goalscorer towards Valladolid with a well-taken end however his major focus will probably be his defensive tasks towards Girona. He’ll doubtless be tasked with retaining Tottenham loanee Bryan Gil quiet.
CB: Pau Cubarsi – The teenager continues to look as unbelievably composed as he did in his breakout 2023/24 marketing campaign and defensive accidents make him an much more important presence within the backline.
CB: Inigo Martinez – With Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen out, Martinez’s solely competitors at centre-back is Eric Garcia – who spent final season with Girona. Nevertheless, the veteran could get the nod for now.
LB: Alejandro Balde – Balde was a menace within the Actual Valladolid half earlier than the worldwide break and his attacking runs may trigger Girona related points. He could have his palms full with the spectacular Viktor Tsygankov on the different finish.
DM: Marc Casado – Accidents have stripped Barca’s midfield naked, with Fermin Lopez the newest to take residence within the therapy room. With Ilkay Gundogan having left for Manchester Metropolis too, Casado has a superb alternative to earn a run of begins.
DM: Pedri – Regardless of being simply 21 years of age, Pedri already appears like one of many older heads in Barca’s midfield. The Spaniard’s pleasant passing vary must be on present towards Girona.
RW: Lamine Yamal – {The teenager} is already the mannequin of consistency, with 4 glorious La Liga performances kicking off an infinite marketing campaign. He has already produced a aim and 4 assists for Barca this time period.
AM: Dani Olmo – Like a duck to water, Olmo has adjusted to life at Barcelona very swiftly. A successful aim on his debut was adopted up by a sensational show towards Valladolid, and the Spaniard must be match this weekend after an harm scare on worldwide responsibility.
LW: Raphinha – Barca will probably be happy to have stored Raphinha round in spite of everything following a powerful begin to the time period. Three targets and an help unsurprisingly earned him the participant of the match award towards Valladolid.
ST: Robert Lewandowski – Targets observe Lewandowski intently, with Poland the beneficiaries of his sharpshooting over the worldwide break. He has 4 targets in 4 begins for Barca in La Liga and there may be lots extra but to come back.
