Barcelona will be looking to register their fourth Champions League victory of the campaign when they welcome French outfit Brest to Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on Tuesday night.
Blaugrana are coming into this game off the back of a 2-2 draw with Celta Vigo in La Liga. Despite drawing in the last game and losing 1-0 to Real Sociedad before that, they still remain at the apex of the La Liga standings.
As far as the Champions League is concerned, the Catalan giants are sixth in the table, boasting nine points from their four matches in this season’s competition. Having already been beaten by French side AS Monaco earlier this season, they will certainly be wary of the threat that Brest could provide.
Barcelona Team News
Ansu Fati, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Ronald Araujo and Marc Bernal are all unavailable. Lamine Yamal is not officially ruled out of the game but is highly unlikely to feature as he battles an ankle problem.
Predicted Barcelona lineup vs Brest (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Inaki Pena has done a decent job in goal while deputising for the injured Ter Stegen. He will be aiming to keep a clean sheet against Brest.
Defence
Jules Kounde will be raring to redeem himself after his mistake led to Celta Vigo’s equaliser last weekend. He should keep his place at right-back, with Alejandro Balde hoping to impress from the left-back position.
Pau Cubarsi is enjoying an impressive season with Barcelona. The youngster should partner the experienced Inigo Martinez in central defence, trying to stop Brest star Doumbia.
Midfield
Frenkie de Jong could anchor the midfield, trying to set the tempo of the game with his passing and ball-retention skills. Partnering the Dutchman in the middle of the park could be Marc Casado, who was sent off against Celta Vigo but is available to feature here.
Pedri should operate in an advanced role, acting as the glue between midfield and attack. The potential Barcelona midfield should have enough quality to dominate Brest. Gavi will be an option to come off the bench and make an impression.
Attack
Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski have been phenomenal this season and the duo deserve to keep their spots intact in attack. Raphinha will start on the right flank, with Lewandowski leading the attack for the home side.
Dani Olmo will be responsible for bringing creativity and flair from the left flank. Hansi Flick could bring on youngsters Pablo Torre and Fermin Lopez in the second half to bring more impetus to the attack.
