FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick will implement multiple alterations to his standard starting lineup for the Catalans’ inaugural match of 2025 in the Copa del Rey versus Barbastro.
Seizing the chance, he will provide season debuts to goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny and central defender Ronald Araujo.
The cup encounter will serve as a nice diversion for Barcelona, distancing them from the controversy surrounding the registrations of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor.
Flick’s sole two summer acquisitions received provisional permits to compete until December 31, but both a judge and La Liga denied their extension, rendering them unable for this match.
During a prematch press conference on Friday, Flick acknowledged his dissatisfaction with the situation but asserted that there is a positive atmosphere inside the group.
“You have also been able to observe it today,” he stated to journalists, who are typically permitted to view a minimum of 15 minutes of the training session before to the manager’s press conference.
They consistently derive enjoyment and have a pleasurable experience; they relish competition, and there exists an excellent atmosphere inside our team. Consequently, we take pleasure in our work environment,” he remarked.
Although the majority of inquiries directed at Flick pertained to Olmo and Pau Victor, the former Bayern Munich manager disclosed that he observed last year’s Copa del Rey match against Barbastro, which Barcelona narrowly won 3-2 under his predecessor, Xavi Hernandez.
Szczesny will make his debut for the squad he rejoined after Marc-Andre Ter Stegen sustained an injury earlier in the season.
Araujo is teamed with Inigo Martinez at center back, while Jules Kounde and Gerard Martin are selected for left back and right back, respectively.
Frenkie de Jong and Eric replace Pedri and Marc Casado as double pivots.
Pedri is not benched; rather, in a more advanced trio, he occupies the central attacking midfielder position, flanked by Fermin Lopez on his left and Pablo Torre on his right.
