FC Barcelona is set to make significant changes to their lineup as they prepare to face Sevilla in a highly-anticipated La Liga match at Montjuic Stadium on Friday.
Head coach Xavi Hernandez had promised rotations earlier in the week, following their disappointing 2-2 draw against Mallorca on Tuesday, and he has stayed true to his word.
Last season, goalkeeper Ter Stegen made 27 appearances in all competitions, but he is now aiming for his first clean sheet in three matches after conceding four goals in the last 180 minutes.
Alejandro Balde will be providing support to Ter Stegen as the left back, while Andreas Christensen and Jules Kounde form a solid central partnership.
Xavi has opted for Joao Cancelo on the right, instead of Ronald Araujo, who played as a center back against Mallorca.
Following a forgettable performance in Majorca, Oriol Romeu will not be in the midfield starting lineup and has been benched.
Frenkie de Jong’s injury means Ilkay Gundogan will likely take his place, while Gavi will also be deployed in the center, and Raphinha will have a number 10-like role.
In the forward line, Xavi has chosen Joao Felix and Lamine Yamal, with Felix playing on the left and the young teenager on the right flank.
Leading the attack as the striker is Robert Lewandowski, reclaiming his position from Ferran Torres, who failed to impress midweek.
Xavi anticipates a tough challenge from Sevilla, describing them as a “rocky opponent” who is “physically strong” and plays a direct, vertical style of football under the guidance of Jose Luis Mendilibar.
Speaking on Thursday, Xavi emphasized the importance of playing at home and having the support of the fans in order to regain their winning form.
A victory for Barcelona in this match will propel them back to the top of La Liga, ahead of their main title contenders Girona and Real Madrid, who will face off on Saturday afternoon.
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