Barcelona’s Potential Lineup Against Atlético in Today’s Copa del Rey Semifinals

Barcelona faces significant challenges ahead of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Atlético Madrid. The team will miss key players due to injuries, affecting their lineup and strategy.

Barcelona’s Potential Lineup Against Atlético in Today’s Copa del Rey Semifinals

Two critical absences, Marcus Rashford and Raphinha, were confirmed last minute. Neither player recovered in time from their respective injuries. Meanwhile, the absence of Pedri was anticipated, as the coaching staff expected him to be sidelined for two weeks.

Key Changes in the Lineup

Due to these injuries, head coach Hansi Flick will have to make several adjustments to the starting eleven. Notably, the left flank will lack both specialists from the roster.

• Dani Olmo is likely to take over the left wing.
• Ferran Torres may assume the striker role.
• Lamine Yamal is expected to play on the right side.

Pedri’s absence is particularly significant, given the match’s intensity and demands. Flick is weighing his options for midfield support, choosing between Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal. Casadó has a slight advantage due to concerns over the poor pitch conditions.

Midfield and Defensive Structure

Frenkie de Jong will return to the starting lineup after missing the last match against Mallorca due to pubic discomfort. He will be joined by Fermín López in a playmaker role.

Defensively, Barcelona is expected to maintain consistency. The central defensive pairing of Pau Cubarsí and Eric García will remain stable, complemented by Koundé and Balde on the wings.

Joan García will try to achieve his twelfth clean sheet of the season, an impressive feat given the stakes of this match. Fans eagerly anticipate how these changes will influence the outcome against Atlético Madrid.