Flick considers a few tweaks against Rayo

Barcelona host Rayo Vallecano on Monday looking to build on their strong start after beating Athletic 2-0 on Thursday. Hansi Flick is not expected to overhaul his starting XI, although a few changes could be made despite the impressive performance last time out.

The biggest development around the club may actually come away from the starting lineup. As Gabriel Jesus’ move edges closer to becoming official, the Brazilian striker is expected to arrive in Barcelona on Monday and could even be in attendance to watch his new team.

On the pitch, Flick is expected to keep much of the same attacking structure. Raphinha and Fermín López, who have scored three goals each at the start of the season, could once again feature alongside Lamine Yamal and Anthony Gordon.

Rodri may have to wait a little longer

One of the biggest questions surrounds the midfield. Rodri has already made his first appearance for Barcelona, but the Spanish international may have to wait for his first start.

The midfielder has dealt with some discomfort during the week and Flick is unlikely to take unnecessary risks. That leaves Marc Bernal and Pedri as the leading candidates to start in the middle.

Their partnership would allow Barça to maintain continuity in a crucial area of the pitch while Rodri continues working his way toward a bigger role in Flick’s team.

Cancelo could be one of the changes

There could also be a change at the back. Espart impressed against Athletic, but after going through the summer without a proper break, Flick could decide this is the right moment to give him some rest.

That could open the door for João Cancelo, while Gerard Martín and Pau Cubarsí are expected to remain at center-back. Eric García, meanwhile, could continue on the right side of the defense.

Flick has several alternatives available, and recent performances have only increased the competition for places. The plan appears to be refreshing certain areas without significantly altering the structure that worked against Athletic.

Competition for places continues to grow

Flick also has no shortage of options if he wants to make further changes. Dani Olmo, Karim Adeyemi and Andreas Christensen are all pushing for starts and could come into consideration depending on the German coach’s final decisions.

Barcelona’s squad depth gives Flick the opportunity to manage workloads early in the season without dramatically changing his approach. The Rayo clash could offer another indication of how he plans to handle that competition.

For now, the expectation is that Barça will retain the core of the team that defeated Athletic, with only a few adjustments and Rodri potentially waiting for another opportunity from the bench.

Barcelona Possible Lineup Against Rayo Vallecano

Goalkeeper: Joan García.

Defenders: Eric García, Gerard Martín, Pau Cubarsí, João Cancelo.

Midfielders: Marc Bernal, Pedri.

Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Fermín López, Raphinha, Anthony Gordon.

3 Key Takeaways From Barcelona’s Possible Lineup

• Rodri may have to wait: his discomfort during the week leaves Bernal and Pedri as the favorites to start in midfield.
• Cancelo could come into the XI: Flick may decide to rest Espart following a summer without a proper break.
• Few changes expected in attack: Raphinha, Fermín, Lamine Yamal and Gordon could all retain their places after the win over Athletic.

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