An idea for a comeback

Barcelona reaches a crossroads in the season with the Champions League as an obsession and a starting eleven still under construction. The victory in the Catalan classic against Espanyol, with five significant rotations, was a testing ground for Hansi Flick, who relied on the versatility of his players to cover for absences and give key figures some rest. The German knows that at the Metropolitano, he will need a team capable of coming back and that every decision can be decisive.

The possible lineup

In defense, the doubts are numerous. Koundé and Cancelo seem fixed in the full-back positions, but Cubarsí's suspension forces improvisation. Eric García could move back to the center, although Flick is also considering returning Araujo to the center alongside Gerard Martín, who is dealing with discomfort but is vital due to his ability to alternate as a center-back or pivot. In midfield, Bernal is a doubt, Casadó is not convincing, and De Jong has barely added minutes since his injury. Pedri will be a starter, although under pressure, and Gavi or Fermín appear as alternatives to support the area.
The attack offers more certainties and options. Lamine Yamal is indisputable and Rashford is gaining ground due to his speed and ability to disrupt. In the attacking midfield position, Flick can choose between Olmo, Fermín, or even Gavi. The '9' position opens up a range of possibilities: Lewandowski, a regular in Europe, starts as the favorite, but his recent numbers raise doubts. Ferran Torres demands the spotlight, and Rashford could also take on that role.

An offensive proposal

The need to score at least two goals forces Flick to opt for an offensive eleven, but the absences and the physical condition of several players turn the lineup into a puzzle. The German coach will have to decide between experience, youth, and versatility to keep the European dream alive.

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