Barcelona will travel to Germany to face Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday evening in one of the most mouthwatering Champions League ties of the week.
Form has slightly dipped for the Catalan giants after early-season signs suggested they could compete for a league and European double. A 2-2 draw with Real Betis on Saturday means Hansi Flick’s side have now won just two of their last six games, dropping crucial points in the title race.
In Europe, they have remained consistent though, and recorded a 3-0 win over French side Brest last time out to maintain their position in the top eight. Flick’s side will be aiming to solidify their position in the top eight by beating Dortmund, who are currently fourth in the Champions League table.
Barcelona Team News
There are no new injury concerns for Barcelona, with defender Andreas Christensen still out, along with forwards Marc Bernal and Ansu Fati, but Ronald Araujo is believed to be in contention after five months out.
Predicted Barcelona lineup vs Borussia Dortmund (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
With Marc-Andre ter Stegen ruled out for the rest of the season, Inaki Pena will continue guarding the Barcelona goal. He will have to produce a strong performance to keep a clean sheet at Signal Iduna Park.
Defence
Young talent Pau Cubarsi should continue partnering the experienced Inigo Martinez in central defence, and the duo will be tasked with keeping Serhou Guirassy at bay.
Jules Kounde is certain to operate from the right-back position, hoping to make contributions at both ends of the pitch. Alejandro Balde will keep his position at left-back intact. The full-backs have to stay focused and disciplined throughout the game to keep Dortmund’s speedy and creative wingers quiet.
Midfield
Frenkie de Jong is expected to start as a deep-lying playmaker after coming off the bench against Real Betis last weekend. The Dutchman may partner Marc Casado in the Barcelona engine room. The two players will look to protect that defensive unit, recycle possession for their side and break up opposition attacks.
Pedri will start in the No.10 role, tasked with the responsibility of linking the midfield with the attack. Dani Olmo must continue on the bench.
Attack
Ferran Torres recently returned from injury and has now scored in back-to-back games, but the Spaniard is set to remain on the bench, with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal the preferred options wide options. The duo have been in scintillating form this season and will provide huge threats to the Dortmund backline.
Robert Lewandowski, who reached 100 Champions League goals after netting against Brest last time out, will love a goal or two against his former employers in midweek. He will lead the Barcelona attack, with Fermin Lopez and Torres trying to make an impression off the bench.
