Barcelona’s likely eleven against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
In defence, Héctor Bellerín is set to start at right-back after Sergi Roberto came off after dislocating his left shoulder against Athletic Club. The former Arsenal man will start at right-back, where he will also have to keep an eye on the runs of Alphonso Davies, one of Bayern’s biggest threats. Sergi Roberto will be out for a minimum of six weeks.
Jules Koundé and Eric García are the first-choice centre-backs and Alejandro Balde could continue at left-back. It will be the 19-year-old’s first start in the Champions League.
In midfield, Xavi could opt for Sergio Busquets in the pivot, with Frenkie de Jong and Gavi ahead of Busquets, and Pedri in a free role. Former Bayern man Robert Lewandowski will have another chance to score against the German giants. The Polish striker has an impressive 17 goals in a total of 15 games so far this season. Ousmane Dembélé, after a sensational performance against Athletic at Camp Nou, should get the nod on the right wing.
Gavi set to return
Gavi has trained with the squad after overcoming the heavy blow from Dani García in the 4-0 win over Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic. The Kopa Trophy winner will likely play in midfield alongside Busquets, De Jong and Pedri. Franck Kessié, who replaced Gavi on the weekend, could come into the starting eleven if the Spain international is not at 100%.
Possible Barcelona XI vs Bayern:
Ter Stegen; Bellerín, Koundé, Eric García, Balde; Busquets, De Jong, Gavi, Pedri; Dembélé, Lewandowski.