Barcelona search for a fourth consecutive win in all competitions this weekend and can attempt to keep their strong lead on the prime of La Liga after they journey to the Basque Nation to face Athletic Membership on the Cathedral of San Mamés.
Right here’s how we predict Hansi Flick will line up his troops for Saturday’s battle:
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Protection
After the large bodily exertions towards Atlético Madrid on Tuesday and with a monster Champions League Spherical of 16 first leg towards Newcastle simply across the nook, Hansi Flick must watch out about choosing a robust staff on Saturday whereas additionally ensuring his facet is totally match for the journey to England.
There’s not a lot that may be completed on the again, nevertheless, as accidents to Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde have severely restricted the defensive choices out there. Solely 5 first staff defenders are match, and we predict the coach will decide Eric Garcia at right-back, Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín at center-back, and João Cancelo at left-back as his again 4 on this one.
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Midfield
Marc Bernal and Pedri have been extraordinary in midweek however have been additionally among the many gamers most exhausted on the finish of the sport towards Atleti, so it’s secure to imagine Flick will relaxation each for Newcastle and begin Marc Casadó on the base of midfield, with Fermín López and Dani Olmo taking part in as quantity 8s in a extra basic 4-3-3 construction.
Assault
Raphinha was one other participant whose tank was very clearly at zero in midweek and would profit from getting at the very least 45-60 minutes off on this one, and we predict Flick can be cautious with the Brazilian given his current damage points and begin Marcus Rashford on the left. Robert Lewandowski can be within the squad and out there to play with a masks however is likely to be saved for Newcastle, so we count on Ferran Torres to steer the road and Lamine Yamal to retain his spot on the precise wing. Beginning Roony Bardghji isn’t a foul thought, however Barça nonetheless have to win this one and Lamine’s kind is simply too good.
Attainable XI: Joan; Eric, Cubarsí, Martín, Cancelo; Fermín, Casadó, Olmo; Yamal, Ferran, Rashford (4-3-3)
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