Barcelona Unleashes New Weapon as Raphinha's Replacement Emerges for Mallorca Showdown—Latest Injury Updates & Starting XI Revealed
Barcelona aim to preserve their flawless home form since returning to the Spotify Camp Nou as they welcome Mallorca.
The historical matchup strongly benefits Barcelona, who remain undefeated in their previous 19 La Liga encounters against Mallorca, claiming 17 wins. Given the visitors' involvement in a relegation fight, failing to secure another victory would be deemed disappointing.
Hansi Flick's team has claimed victory in 11 of their most recent 12 La Liga fixtures, though they begin the weekend holding just a single point advantage over Real Madrid in the championship race. Any points lost from this moment through season's end could prove damaging, making it crucial for Barcelona to avoid any missteps on Saturday.
Match Snapshot
Match Snapshot
Team News
Team News
Flick must navigate without key forward Raphinha, who will be sidelined for a consecutive match due to muscular fatigue. While the injury remains minor, Flick acknowledged their cautious approach to the Brazilian's rehabilitation to prevent recurrence during the season's crucial phase.
Gavi and Pedri were observed training on the field together as both approach the concluding phases of their rehabilitation. Though it's encouraging they've moved beyond the medical facility, the midfield duo still requires several weeks before match readiness.
Andreas Christensen, sidelined for the remainder of the campaign, represents the sole other Barcelona player unavailable for Mallorca's arrival.
Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Mallorca (4-2-3-1)
Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Mallorca (4-2-3-1)
GK: Joan García—The Spanish keeper consistently delivers spectacular saves for his seasonal highlights, though he's appeared somewhat uncertain in recent matches and hasn't recorded a shutout in three consecutive games.
RB: Jules Koundé—Koundé's difficulties have been widely noted, though an excellent display last week should provide the confidence needed to rediscover his peak form.
CB: Pau Cubarsí—Cubarsí has faced challenges against powerful strikers this season, and Vedat Muriqi presents another significant examination for the academy product.
CB: Eric García—Flick will position García centrally in defense as the German manager continues utilizing his adaptability. The García-Cubarsí combination remains Flick's favored duo despite their physical limitations.
LB: Alejandro Balde—Balde's display against Elche last week earned public recognition from Flick as he demonstrated why he ranks among football's most explosive and well-rounded left-backs.
CM: Frenkie de Jong—De Jong appears unstoppable currently and is performing at what may be the peak level of his professional journey.
CM: Dani Olmo—Despite operating in a withdrawn position recently, Olmo has maintained his ability to unlock defenses with precisely weighted passes.
RW: Lamine Yamal—Yamal has displayed exceptional form, generating 12 scoring opportunities across his previous two league appearances and entering Saturday's fixture having found the net in four straight matches across all competitions—his longest such run.
AM: Fermin López—The Spanish midfielder will seek redemption following his unusually profligate performance last week, where he squandered multiple clear scoring chances but failed to register a goal.
LW: Marcus Rashford—The English winger becomes the third Barcelona player this campaign to achieve double figures in both goals and assists. His productivity is undeniable, though there's a sense he possesses untapped potential waiting to be fully realized.
ST: Ferran Torres—Torres earns selection as he maintains his slight advantage over Robert Lewandowski in the central striker competition. However, if his conversion rate doesn't improve, the experienced Polish striker may reclaim his starting position shortly.