Barcelona will be eager to return to winning ways and put some pressure on Real Madrid and Girona when they take on RCD Mallorca in La Liga tonight.
The Blaugrana had an excellent chance to close down the gap to the top last week after Real Madrid and Girona dropped points. But they failed to capitalise, being held to a goalless draw by Athletic Club at San Mames.
However, with the top two sides scheduled to play later in the weekend, Barça have an opportunity to put them under pressure with a victory against Javier Aguirre’s men tonight at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
But, things might not be as straightforward as they seem for Barcelona have been hit with injuries to key men Pedri and Frenkie de Jong while they will also have an eye on next week’s crucial UEFA Champions League encounter against Napoli.
As such, rotations could be on the cards for Barça, who will go into the game without Pedri, De Jong, Gavi, Alejandro Balde, and Ferran Torres (all injured). Moreover, Ronald Araujo will be unavailable through suspension.
Here’s how Xavi Hernandez, who himself is serving a one-match ban, will set his team up against Mallorca tonight.
Starters
Marc-Andre ter Stegen is a certain starter in goal for Barcelona and it will be a special occasion for the German international is it will be his 400th appearance for the Catalan club.
With Ronald Araujo injured, youngster Pau Cubarsi is expected to come into the starting lineup, partnering with Inigo Martinez at the heart of the defence. Joao Cancelo ought to continue at left-back with Alejandro Balde out and Marcos Alonso just back from injury.
There is likely to be a change at right-back, with Hector Fort expected to replace Jules Kounde, who has featured in every minute of every game Barça have played in 2024. As such, the Frenchman could use a breather before the big game against Napoli.
Hector Fort to replace Jules Kounde. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
With no Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong, Xavi…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/fermin-fort-start-in-a-4-3-3-how-barcelona-could-line-up-against-mallorca/
Author : Michel Durant
Publish date : 2024-03-08 09:06:56
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