Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is not taking any chances after his team narrowly avoided a setback against Celta Vigo.
The dramatic late turnaround served as a reality check for the German coach, who is now focused on keeping things stable ahead of the all-important Copa del Rey final scheduled for Saturday.
With more than 72 hours separating the league game against Mallorca and the cup final, Flick has the opportunity to pick a strong starting line-up without worrying about fatigue.
The message from the manager is clear—there will be no room for unnecessary experiments or sweeping changes.
While a few tweaks may be made to improve specific areas, most of the key players who featured against Celta are expected to keep their places.
On that note, let’s take a closer look at how Barcelona might line up for their upcoming match at home against Mallorca.
Defence
The goalkeeping position will remain unchanged. Wojciech Szczesny will continue to start between the posts. Despite the return of Marc-Andre ter Stegen looming large, Szczesny is still the preferred choice for now, as previously reported.
Flick sees no reason to alter this arrangement with such an important game coming up.
In the central defence, Ronald Araujo is expected to form a partnership with young Pau Cubarsi. Inigo Martinez, who is one booking away from a suspension, may be left out of the starting XI to avoid the risk of him missing the cup final.
On the flanks, Gerard Martin is likely to keep his place at left-back. Although Hector Fort has filled in previously and is a natural option for the role, Flick was reportedly unhappy with his reaction, which could see Fort return to the bench.
On the right side of defence, Jules Kounde remains the trusted option and should continue in his usual role.
Midfield
In midfield, the most significant change could come in the form of Eric Garcia stepping in for Frenkie de Jong. Garcia, usually a centre-back, has proven himself versatile enough to handle midfield duties when called upon.
He may line up alongside Pedri, who was rested in the last outing against Dortmund and is expected to return fresh.
The attacking midfield spot remains open. Dani Olmo, who played a vital part in the comeback win over Celta, is now available for selection from the start and could be given a more prominent role.
However, Flick also has other reliable options, such as Fermin Lopez and Gavi, both of whom are in the mix to partner with Pedri in the middle of the park.
Attack
In attack, the absence of Robert Lewandowski continues to shape the forward line. As a result, Ferran Torres is likely to feature more prominently through the centre.
On either side of him, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are expected to take up the wide positions, offering pace and creativity on the wings.
Flick’s approach for this match is simple but firm—avoid any chaos and build momentum heading into the Copa del Rey final.
By trimming down rotations and sticking closely to his most dependable players, the manager is making it clear that every match from this point forward is crucial.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is not taking any chances after his team narrowly avoided a setback against Celta Vigo.
The dramatic late turnaround served as a reality check for the German coach, who is now focused on keeping things stable ahead of the all-important Copa del Rey final scheduled for Saturday.
With more than 72 hours separating the league game against Mallorca and the cup final, Flick has the opportunity to pick a strong starting line-up without worrying about fatigue.
The message from the manager is clear—there will be no room for unnecessary experiments or sweeping changes.
While a few tweaks may be made to improve specific areas, most of the key players who featured against Celta are expected to keep their places.
On that note, let’s take a closer look at how Barcelona might line up for their upcoming match at home against Mallorca.
Defence
The goalkeeping position will remain unchanged. Wojciech Szczesny will continue to start between the posts. Despite the return of Marc-Andre ter Stegen looming large, Szczesny is still the preferred choice for now, as previously reported.
Flick sees no reason to alter this arrangement with such an important game coming up.
In the central defence, Ronald Araujo is expected to form a partnership with young Pau Cubarsi. Inigo Martinez, who is one booking away from a suspension, may be left out of the starting XI to avoid the risk of him missing the cup final.
On the flanks, Gerard Martin is likely to keep his place at left-back. Although Hector Fort has filled in previously and is a natural option for the role, Flick was reportedly unhappy with his reaction, which could see Fort return to the bench.
On the right side of defence, Jules Kounde remains the trusted option and should continue in his usual role.
Midfield
In midfield, the most significant change could come in the form of Eric Garcia stepping in for Frenkie de Jong. Garcia, usually a centre-back, has proven himself versatile enough to handle midfield duties when called upon.
He may line up alongside Pedri, who was rested in the last outing against Dortmund and is expected to return fresh.
The attacking midfield spot remains open. Dani Olmo, who played a vital part in the comeback win over Celta, is now available for selection from the start and could be given a more prominent role.
However, Flick also has other reliable options, such as Fermin Lopez and Gavi, both of whom are in the mix to partner with Pedri in the middle of the park.
Attack
In attack, the absence of Robert Lewandowski continues to shape the forward line. As a result, Ferran Torres is likely to feature more prominently through the centre.
On either side of him, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are expected to take up the wide positions, offering pace and creativity on the wings.
Flick’s approach for this match is simple but firm—avoid any chaos and build momentum heading into the Copa del Rey final.
By trimming down rotations and sticking closely to his most dependable players, the manager is making it clear that every match from this point forward is crucial.
