Cubarsi, Gavi start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Atletico Madrid | Copa del Rey | OneFootball

Since the turn of the year, Barcelona remain unbeaten, and they now face one of their toughest challenges of the year. The team will meet Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg at the Metropolitano.

This clash is crucial for their hopes in the competition, and with a strong squad, they are determined to make it to the final.

Barcelona’s injury list is familiar, with a few notable absences. Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Marc Bernal, and Andreas Christensen are all out of action and will not be available for selection.

In addition, Dani Olmo, who has been a key player for the team, is sidelined with an adductor injury. He is expected to be out for up to three weeks, which forces Flick to make some changes.

Despite these absences, Barcelona have remained solid throughout the season, and Hansi Flick will be hoping to keep their strong momentum going.

The coach is expected to make some adjustments to the starting line-up, especially considering the stakes of the match.

In the previous match against Girona, Flick made a few changes to his defensive setup, but against Atletico Madrid, he will likely opt for a more experienced squad, knowing the importance of this game.

Defence

Wojciech Szczesny will continue to guard the goal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Wojciech Szczesny has been a reliable figure in goal for Barcelona, and his place as the first-choice goalkeeper is secure.

The Polish international has yet to experience a defeat in the current season, earning him the trust of his manager and teammates. Given the importance of the upcoming match, he will continue to be a key figure in Barcelona’s defence.

In the defensive line, there are expected changes. Pau Cubarsi, who did not make it to the playing XI against Girona, and Inigo Martinez are likely to return to the starting XI for this high-stakes encounter.

This would result in Jules Kounde playing as the right-back and Alejandro Balde, who was also rested last weekend, returning to his usual left-back position, replacing Gerard Martin.

Midfield

Frenkie de Jong could return to the playing XI. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Midfield is where Barcelona face the most interesting dilemma. In the previous match against Girona, Eric Garcia started in the pivot role, but tonight, Frenkie de Jong is expected to take that position.

De Jong has been one of the standout performers for Barcelona, and his return to the starting line-up will add much-needed strength in the midfield.

Pedri will continue in his usual central role, and with Olmo unavailable, Gavi will likely shift back to an attacking midfield role after playing as a winger in the last match.

Attack

Raphinha is fit to play. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

In attack, Barcelona are boosted by the return of Raphinha, who has missed the last two games. The Brazilian winger is expected to slot back into the left-wing position, with Lamine Yamal continuing on the right.

Yamal’s pace and dribbling ability have made him a standout performer, and he will be crucial in breaking down Atletico’s defence.

Robert Lewandowski, who has only started one Copa del Rey match this season, is set to lead the line for Barcelona.

The Polish striker has been an integral part of the team and will be expected to provide the necessary goals in this high-pressure match.

With the attacking options in place, Barcelona will look to put pressure on Atletico Madrid and secure a strong result in this pivotal second leg.