Felix, Fermin start in a 4-3-3: How Barcelona should lineup against Atletico Madrid

Barcelona’s tough schedule has only just started as the final third of the season gets heated just before the last international break, as well. 

Coming off an inspiring 4-2 win against Napoli at home in the Champions League round of 16 on aggregate, the Catalans will now take on Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano tomorrow night in an attempt to cut down Real Madrid’s ten-point lead at the top of the table. 

While Barça prevailed in the reverse fixture, courtesy of a goal from none other than Joao Felix, this game will prove to be tougher as Diego Simeone’s are coming off an inspiring win against Inter Milan in the Champions League.

Further, Atletico will also be seeking revenge on Felix, especially, and will likely go all guns blazing from the get-go.

Ahead of this nervy tie, Barça Universal takes a jab at the starting lineup Xavi should go for, in an ideal situation.

Defence: Araujo back

Ronald Araujo picked up his fifth yellow card of the season against Athletic Club in the 0-0 win last fortnight and missed the 1-0 win against Mallorca the following weekend.

He looked fresh as ever on his return vs Napoli, though, and should be the first name in the backline tomorrow. In his aid, we assume Xavi will go for Pau Cubarsi in the heart of the quartet, but Inigo Martinez will be as safe a choice given his experience and form.

Jules Kounde has been in scintillating form, as well, and there should be no doubt about his place as the right-back in the back-line. And with no other option on the left side, Joao Cancelo will be given the nod once again.

This back-four will be given the responsibility to screen Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has looked far from his best after coming back from his back injury.

Midfield: Let Fermin cook again

After no changes in the defence, we hope that Xavi makes no adjustments in the midfield, either.

With Frenkie de Jong and Pedri out injured, Fermin Lopez was given the chance he deserved against Napoli and he came…

Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/felix-fermin-start-in-a-4-3-3-how-barcelona-should-lineup-against-atletico-madrid/

Author : Udhav Arora

Publish date : 2024-03-16 20:15:00

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