Flick Unleashes Barcelona's Powerhouse Squad Against Daegu FC in Anticipated Clash

Barcelona advance their pre-season readiness for the 2025–26 season on Monday as they take on South Korea's Daegu FC.

The Catalan giants have already cruised past Vissel Kobe and FC Seoul during their Asian tour, netting seven goals against the latter in an entertaining match in the South Korean capital. They'll be looking to secure a third consecutive win against struggling Daegu.

Hansi Flick has deployed strong starting formations during Barcelona's opening two exhibition matches and is expected to maintain this approach on Monday. Their preferred XI should begin the match, though anticipate significant substitutions as the game unfolds.

Here's how Barcelona might set up.

Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Daegu (4-2-3-1)

GK: Joan García—The shot-stopper hasn't faced significant challenges since his summer move from Espanyol, and he was powerless to prevent two goals during his first-half appearance against Seoul.

RB: Jules Koundé—Koundé delivered a solid display during Thursday's win and should receive additional playing time on Monday as Barcelona's established right-back. He's unlikely to encounter major difficulties against Daegu's underwhelming offensive unit.

CB: Pau Cubarsí—Cesinha represents arguably Daegu's primary attacking threat, but the Brazilian veteran should be contained by Barcelona's talented young defender.

CB: Ronald Araújo—Flick somewhat dismissively addressed speculation about an Araújo departure this summer and continues to show confidence in the Uruguayan throughout pre-season.

LB: Alejandro Balde—Balde will be tasked with making overlapping runs along the flank on Monday, offering substantial offensive contribution while facing minimal defensive responsibilities.

DM: Pedri—Pedri delivered another characteristically elegant display against Seoul in the previous match and remains the central figure of Barcelona's impressive midfield unit.

DM: Frenkie de Jong—The Netherlands international has disclosed he's near to finalizing a new deal with the Catalans following persistent departure speculation, and he stays crucial to Barcelona's setup under Flick.

RW: Lamine Yamal—The teenager showcased his offensive prowess against Seoul by scoring twice, converting two typically polished finishes. He'll be eager to find the net again against Daegu.

AM: Dani Olmo—Olmo provided an assist for one of Yamal's goals in Seoul, bouncing back from a subdued showing against Vissel Kobe. Daegu should be concerned about a creative exhibition from the playmaker.

LW: Raphinha—Raphinha lacks a goal or assist in pre-season, a statistic that's expected to change against Daegu on Monday. The Brazilian will aim to establish some scoring rhythm before the new season begins.

ST: Robert Lewandowski—Barcelona will need to identify Lewandowski's eventual replacement soon, but the Polish striker continues to find the net consistently. He scored his first pre-season goal in the last outing.