Lewandowski Eyes Comeback as Barcelona Prepares Star-Studded Lineup Against Levante
A comfortable 3–0 away win to start the new campaign? Sounds perfect, right?
Well, tell that to Hansi Flick.
The German coach, determined to maintain the high standards from their historic treble-winning 2024–25 season, was livid with his squad in Mallorca. He criticized them for operating at just "50%" during the second half, after the home side had two players dismissed in the first period while down 2–0.
Lamine Yamal ultimately capped off the scoring with a brilliant third goal in added time, but Barcelona's performance lacked urgency and sharpness. Flick will therefore hope his post-match tirade provides the additional spark his exceptional squad needs to replicate last season's achievements.
An encounter with Segunda division winners Levante awaits next, and here's how Barcelona might set up on Saturday night.
Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Levante (4-2-3-1)
GK: Joan García—Barcelona's new first-choice keeper was officially registered before their season opener, though the club's concerns proved unnecessary given García's peaceful evening. The visitors will be hoping their shot-stopper enjoys another calm performance here.
RB: Jules Koundé—The French defender penned fresh terms during the week and is anticipated to return to Flick's starting eleven, replacing Eric García.
CB: Ronald Araújo—This represents a crucial campaign for Araújo, who has reclaimed his starting position by circumstance following Iñigo Martínez's departure.
CB: Pau Cubarsí—The youngster formed an excellent partnership with Martínez during the previous campaign, and must now establish similar chemistry with Araújo. The duo struggled to complement each other effectively when paired together last season.
LB: Alejandro Balde—While Flick has La Masia academy products available as backup options, Balde remains the clear first choice and will feature regularly provided he avoids injury setbacks.
DM: Frenkie de Jong—Despite having Gavi and Marc Casadó as alternatives from the bench, De Jong, who has been impressive in 2025 and completed the full 90 minutes in the season opener, should retain his place in Flick's midfield pairing.
DM: Pedri—The Spanish midfielder was exceptional last season, and there's every reason to believe he can continue that excellence in 2025–26 assuming he remains healthy.
RW: Lamine Yamal—The young talent got off the mark for the new season with a sublime late finish last week, though one might question whether the full 90 minutes were required, particularly given the leisurely pace of the second half.
AM: Dani Olmo—Barcelona faced registration concerns regarding Olmo at this point last year, but they have different worries to address this time around. The Spanish playmaker started from the bench last weekend, with Fermin López expected to compete for significant playing time in the attacking midfield role.
LW: Raphinha—The Brazilian picked up where he finished last season, netting Barcelona's opening goal of 2025–26 early in the match against Mallorca.
ST: Ferran Torres—Flick didn't completely dismiss the possibility of Robert Lewandowski recovering from injury for this weekend, but it appears Torres will keep his starting spot even if the experienced striker regains fitness. Barcelona's "predator" found the net for his first goal of the new season on opening day.
