- Here is Barcelona’s predicted line up for their La Liga clash against Rayo Vallecano.
- New signing Rodri is set to get his first start since joining from Manchester City.
- Hansi Flick will be keen to keep it a 100% start after Real Madrid’s win.
Barcelona will be looking to maintain their perfect start to the new La Liga campaign when they welcome Rayo Vallecano to the Camp Nou on Monday night.
Hansi Flick’s side have wasted little time showing their intentions this season, opening their campaign with back-to-back victories. The Catalan giants began with a convincing 5-0 demolition of Elche before following it up with a composed 2-0 win over Athletic Club in their first home fixture.
Those results have put Barcelona among the early pace-setters, but with Real Madrid also making an impressive start, Flick will know that there is little room for complacency.
Rayo Vallecano arrive with the task of trying to frustrate a Barcelona side that appears to be growing in confidence with every game.
Flick has most of his squad available, giving him the luxury of selecting a strong starting XI as the club continues to settle into the new campaign.
One of the biggest talking points ahead of the game is the possible inclusion of Rodri from the start.
The midfielder made his Barcelona debut from the bench against Athletic Club, playing around 30 minutes as he continued his return to competitive football. After getting a taste of action, Rodri could now be handed his first start in Barcelona colours.
His potential partnership with Pedri is particularly exciting. The two midfielders are regarded among the finest players in their positions, and their combination could give Barcelona greater control, creativity and defensive security in the middle of the pitch.
Pedri was outstanding against Athletic Club, dictating the tempo and consistently finding space between the lines. With Rodri potentially alongside him, Barcelona could have one of the most technically gifted midfield combinations in La Liga.
Joan García is expected to continue in goal after beginning the season with two consecutive clean sheets. The goalkeeper has enjoyed a quiet start between the posts, but Rayo should provide a sterner test.
Eric García is likely to retain his position at right-back, with Pau Cubarsí expected to partner Gerard Martín in central defence. Martín’s transition from left-back to centre-back has been one of the more encouraging developments for Flick, while Cubarsí continues to mature despite his young age.
At left-back, teenage prospect Xavi Espart could keep his place after impressing Flick with his composure and maturity. The youngster has quickly become one of the early stories of Barcelona’s season.
Further forward, Lamine Yamal is expected to start on the right wing. Although the young winger is yet to register a goal contribution this season, his ability to change games remains one of Barcelona’s biggest attacking weapons.
Fermín López is also likely to retain his place in the attacking midfield role after scoring three goals in his first two appearances. His excellent start could make it difficult for Dani Olmo to force his way into the XI.
Karim Adeyemi could get another opportunity on the left, with competition for places increasing following the arrival of several attacking options. The German forward will be keen to respond after missing two chances following his introduction against Athletic Club.
Leading the attack, Raphinha is expected to continue in the central role. The Brazilian has started the campaign in spectacular fashion, scoring three goals in two matches and looking increasingly comfortable operating as the focal point of the attack.
Barcelona’s attacking options could soon become even stronger with Gabriel Jesus set to join the club. His arrival also appears to have ended Barcelona’s pursuit of Julián Alvarez, with Atlético Madrid continuing to stand firm over the Argentine forward.
Barcelona predicted lineup vs Rayo Vallecano
Goalkeeper: Joan García
Defenders: Eric García, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Xavi Espart
Midfielders: Rodri, Pedri
Attackers: Lamine Yamal, Fermín López, Karim Adeyemi, Raphinha
[…] The transfer activity is especially relevant as Barcelona continue their La Liga campaign against Rayo Vallecano on 31 August. For the match-specific selection picture, read SportPesa Kenya’s Barcelona predicted lineup vs Rayo Vallecano. […]