Rashford Set to Make Barcelona Debut Against Vissel Kobe as Rising Stars Prepare for Action

Following extensive discussions, Barcelona's inaugural summer friendly match against Vissel Kobe will proceed as scheduled this Sunday.

The Spanish champions are traveling to Asia this summer as they prepare for Hansi Flick's sophomore campaign at the helm. The Catalan club will aim to replicate their impressive 2024-25 performance, having begun the transfer window with considerable activity despite ongoing financial challenges.

This presents an opportunity for Flick to showcase several new signings this weekend, while his touring roster features numerous La Masia academy prospects alongside established stars.

Here's Barcelona's potential starting eleven against Vissel Kobe on Sunday.

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

GK: Joan García—García has made the move across Catalonia this summer and was anticipated to become Barcelona's first-choice goalkeeper even before Marc-André ter Stegen's surgical procedure was announced.

RB: Jules Koundé—While there has been discussion about the French defender's potential departure, Koundé appears likely to stay with Barcelona this summer. With limited right-back alternatives available to Flick, the ex-Sevilla player should earn the starting position.

CB: Pau Cubarsí—The young defender was a regular fixture in Flick's defensive setup last season and will probably continue as a central figure in Barcelona's backline for the 2025-26 campaign.

CB: Iñigo Martínez—Flick will make changes at center-back on Sunday, with Ronald Araújo providing another experienced choice. Nevertheless, Martínez usually partnered with the youngster.

LB: Jofre Torrents—There's considerable enthusiasm around Torrents, who might overtake other youth academy players to secure a preseason start on Sunday.

CM: Marc Casadó—The midfielder has been loosely connected to a potential departure this summer, though recent weeks have shown little indication of his exit. Flick might give his regular starting duo, who were occupied with international duties in June, some rest at the tour's beginning.

CM: Gavi—Although the Spanish player appeared frequently for Flick's team last season, Gavi wasn't central to Barcelona's achievements. He'll be looking to rediscover his pre-injury excellence in 2025-26.

RW: Lamine Yamal—The newly 18-year-old was heavily utilized last season and doesn't require an intensive preseason to prepare optimally for the upcoming campaign. Yamal might receive 45 minutes of action here.

AM: Fermín López—Fermín will probably split playing time with Olmo on Sunday and during preseason matches.

LW: Raphinha—The Brazilian international was the standout performer of Barcelona's highly successful 2024-25 season. With Marcus Rashford's arrival creating stronger competition, this represents a crucial summer for him. Raphinha will be eager to demonstrate to the English player that he remains the primary choice in this position.

ST: Ferran Torres—Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski should see limited action this summer, but Ferran demonstrated his capability as an excellent substitute last season.