Dani Olmo in, €50m player out with suspension — Predicted Barcelona starting XI vs. Rayo Vallecano | OneFootball

Up next for FC Barcelona is a crucial clash against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga. Set to take place at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, it is a match that Hansi Flick’s men must win at all costs. With it being a golden opportunity for Barcelona, they simply cannot afford to slip up.

However, to accomplish that goal and get a victory, Flick has to rely on his best players for this game. With Rayo Vallecano also being in red-hot form right now, Barcelona will need to ensure that they continue their own run of form and aim for all three points in this game.

Here is how Hansi Flick’s side could line up for the game.

Predicted Barcelona Starting XI

Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczęsny

The Polish goalkeeper continues his own streak of not suffering defeat this year so far. Ever since he became the number one choice as the team’s primary goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczęsny has consistently proven his worth, despite a few slip-ups every now and then.

Right-back: Jules Koundé

Few players have been as consistent this season as the Frenchman, and he will likely be starting this game as well. His defensive and offensive output this season has been worth noting, and it seems that he will have some big responsibilities against Rayo as well.

Centre-back: Pau Cubarsí

The young Spaniard has renewed his contract with the club and it seems to be quite clear that he is seen as a future leader in this team. Fortunately for Hansi Flick, the youngster’s quality in the present is also a big blessing.

Centre-back: Iñigo Martínez

If there was any doubt about the selection previously, it will likely be gone now due to Ronald Araújo having recovered from his recent discomfort just recently. That makes the decision to start Iñigo Martínez a lot easier to make, and the Spaniard should be starting in this game.

Left-back: Alejandro Balde

The Spaniard has consistently been one of Barça’s better performers this year. His improvement is undeniable, and the threat he poses on the left flank can not be underestimated.

CDM: Frenkie de Jong

Now competing for starts in almost every game, Frenkie de Jong has turned his season around. After a rather frustrating 2024, the Dutchman’s rise this year is unquestionable and it is clear to see just how much Hansi Flick appreciates him by looking at the times that the German coach has turned to him to solve complicated situations in games.

CDM: Pedri

A maestro in the Barcelona midfield, Pedri ensures that the team maintains their composure at all times and he is often the architect of many of the side’s best plays. Without him, Hansi Flick’s team does not control the game nearly as effectively.

RAM: Lamine Yamal

The Barcelona sensation remains at the top of his game and he has constantly produced magic this season. Heading into this match, his team will need him to do that again and when he is on his game, few players in the world can manage to stop him.

With reports suggesting that Hansi Flick wants Dani Olmo to start this game, it would make sense for the Spaniard to do so. Fermín López, who ended up getting a red card against Sevilla, is suspended for this game, and Olmo would be the natural pick to start as the team’s primary attacking midfielder.

While the €50 million-rated Fermín López has also been enjoying a great season so far, Flick will be more than happy with the quality of the alternative that he has at his disposal.

In many ways, the Brazilian forward has been the perfect kind of leader for Barcelona this season. Both in terms of his character and his displays on the field, the South American star is well and truly a top contender for even the Ballon d’Or this season.

Hansi Flick seems to have the Polish center-forward as his primary striker even now, and Lewandowski could end up starting this game as well. However, the Pole will need to be clinical if he wants to ensure that Rayo Vallecano are hurt by his presence.