In Logroño, Barcelona arrived at Las Gaunas for the fifth round of Liga F with a turquoise change strip, a four-match winning start behind them and a squad stretched by injuries and international duty. Pere Romeu’s side remain top of the table, but the trip to La Rioja has required a significant contribution from younger players.
Barcelona’s altered squad in La Rioja
Cata Coll has remained in Barcelona following a technical decision, while Aitana Bonmatí returns to the matchday group. Claudia Pina is also available after the knock she suffered in the Champions League.
Barcelona are without several established options, with Laia Aleixandri, Van Asten, Kika and Vicky López all sidelined through injury. Aïcha and Julià are away at the Under-20 World Cup, a tournament being played during the domestic club calendar.
- Barcelona have won each of their opening four Liga F matches.
- Aitana Bonmatí is back in contention.
- Claudia Pina has been passed fit following her Champions League injury concern.
- Laia Aleixandri, Van Asten, Kika and Vicky López are unavailable because of injuries.
- Aïcha and Julià are representing their countries at the Under-20 World Cup.
Young players called into the travelling group
The absences have opened places for several developing players in the Barcelona selection. Martina González, Carolina, Cabetas, Lídia Gibert, Lúa Arufe and Mayssa have all been included for the visit to Las Gaunas.
Barcelona’s starting side is made up of Gemma, Marta Torrejón, Martina, Martina González, Carolina, Sydney, Serrajordi, Lua, Graham, Kerolin and Mayssa.
The visitors have depth available among the substitutes, including Mccamey, Paredes, Brugts, Lídia Gibert, Patri, Aitana, Pina, Pajor and Cabetas.
Logroño United’s selection
Logroño United begin with Miralles in goal, behind a defensive line of Comfort, Rebeca, Marta and Annele. Velazco, Falfán and Cata operate in midfield, with Cris, Isina and Barquero selected further forward.
- Goalkeeper: Miralles
- Defenders: Comfort, Rebeca, Marta, Annele
- Midfielders: Velazco, Falfán, Cata
- Forwards: Cris, Isina, Barquero
The condition of the Las Gaunas pitch is an added concern as Barcelona seek to protect their perfect opening record and extend their lead at the summit of Liga F.
