Raphinha and Lewandowski Set to Spearhead Barcelona's Attack Against Eintracht Frankfurt
Barcelona cruised through the league phase last season, but numerous challenges have now combined to push the La Liga titleholders into a minor crisis this campaign.
A humbling 3–0 loss to Chelsea a fortnight ago has left Hansi Flick's squad sitting 18th in the standings and requiring three wins to maximize their chances of securing automatic qualification to the round of 16.
Injury problems, tactical issues and a demanding fixture list mean Barça have managed only two Champions League victories so far, though an easier schedule in the coming year should help Flick's team get back on track.
Their gentler run starts with a vulnerable Eintracht Frankfurt side visiting the Spotify Camp Nou on Tuesday evening, and here's the Barcelona lineup Flick might select for the encounter.
Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Eintracht Frankfurt (4-2-3-1)
GK: Joan García—Marc-André ter Stegen has recovered from injury, but Flick has stated that García will continue as Barcelona's first-choice keeper.
RB: Jules Koundé—Flick might consider rotation at this spot, with Koundé conceding a crucial penalty in the 5–3 victory over Real Betis on Saturday, though the German manager still trusts the French defender.
CB: Pau Cubarsí—The youngster is expected to remain a fixture going forward, particularly with the ongoing uncertainty around Ronald Araújo.
CB: Gerard Martín—Flick favors Martín in this role, and the youth product has revealed his teammates now call him "Gerard Maldini." He'll partner Cubarsí again on Tuesday.
LB: Alejandro Balde—With Martín better suited centrally, Balde faces minimal competition for his position.
CM: Frenkie de Jong—De Jong sorely lacked his midfield partner at Stamford Bridge two weeks back, with the Dutch player performing at his usual standard when not overburdened in the build-up play.
CM: Pedri—Pedri is an exceptional talent and presently the globe's finest midfielder. Challenge that statement if you dare. Barcelona are visibly weaker without him.
RW: Lamine Yamal—Flick effectively tested Yamal in a central role on Saturday, and the German should reserve that tactical switch for when needed.
AM: Fermín López—His comeback is well-timed, considering Dani Olmo has recently suffered a shoulder problem. López had been displaying superb form throughout October and November.
LW: Raphinha—Raphinha's movement without the ball is vital to this Barcelona side's effectiveness, and he'll return to the starting eleven on Tuesday after being an unused substitute at the weekend. Flick is handling his minutes prudently.
ST: Robert Lewandowski—The veteran striker was disappointing in his last start against Atlético Madrid, but Flick understands he must rely on Lewandowski alongside Ferran Torres for the remainder of this season. Torres was the match-winner on Saturday, but the Polish forward could be rotated back into the team here.
