Barcelona will take Pau Cubarsí back into the starting defence at the Sánchez Pizjuán, with Hansi Flick confirming the young centre-back’s involvement after he was rested on Wednesday. The goalkeeper decision remains open following Joan García’s knee problem, leaving another significant selection call before the side travels to Seville.
Goalkeeper choice still unresolved
Joan García has been ruled out with swelling in his right knee, forcing Barcelona to choose between Wojciech Szczesny and Dominik Livakovic.
- Szczesny may hold a narrow advantage because of his greater experience.
- Livakovic is also regarded as a credible candidate to start.
- Flick did not reveal which goalkeeper would play when speaking before the match.
Cubarsí returns to lead the back line
Cubarsí was the only player whose selection Flick disclosed. His return is expected to give Barcelona a fresh defensive reference after his midweek rest.
Gerard Martín is also strongly placed to keep his role and partner Cubarsí in central defence. That would leave Andreas Christensen outside the line-up, with Flick carefully controlling the Danish defender’s workload.
Changes possible around Barcelona’s core
Further alterations are possible after several players began Wednesday’s match on the bench. Fermín López and Anthony Gordon are among those in contention to return from the outset, while Xavi Espart could also be restored despite João Cancelo scoring twice against Racing.
Flick’s established spine is nevertheless expected to remain in place at the Sánchez Pizjuán.
- Rodri is set to continue in the side.
- Pedri remains one of the coach’s key midfield figures.
- Lamine is expected to retain his place.
- Eric is another likely starter.
- Raphinha completes the group regarded as indispensable in Flick’s current plans.
