FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has revealed the starting lineup for the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Atlético Madrid. The match promises intensity as both teams look to gain an early advantage in the knockout stage.
🔹 Barcelona’s Key Changes
Flick has made two notable changes from the lineup used against Atlético last weekend:
- Koundé returns at right-back in place of Araujo
- Robert Lewandowski starts as the striker, while Dani Olmo drops back to attacking midfield, replacing Fermín
Fermín will remain on the bench after suffering a minor cut during training earlier in the day.
🔹 Barcelona Starting XI
Barcelona Lineup vs Atlético Madrid:
- Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia
- Defenders: Koundé, Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Cancelo
- Midfielders: Eric Garcia, Pedri, Lamine, Olmo
- Forwards: Rashford, Lewandowski
Bench: Szczesny, Kochen, Araujo, Balde, Cortés, Xavi Espart, Gavi, Fermín, Casadó, Tommy, Ferran, Roony
🔹 Key Points to Watch
- Lewandowski’s impact: Returning as the central striker, Lewandowski is expected to lead Barça’s attacking play.
- Koundé’s defensive stability: His return at right-back may add crucial balance against Atlético’s wing play.
- Fermín’s recovery: Fans will watch to see if he gets minutes off the bench after the training injury.
- Disciplinary alert: Four Barça players — Lamine, Fermín, Gerard Martín, and Casadó — are one yellow card away from suspension, adding tension to this knockout fixture.
🔹 Context Ahead of the Match
This first-leg clash is pivotal for Barcelona’s Champions League ambitions, with Atlético Madrid also looking to capitalize on any mistakes. Recent encounters between these rivals have been closely contested, making tactical decisions from Flick vital.
Fans will also remember the massive welcome at Spotify Camp Nou, highlighting the anticipation surrounding this Champions League encounter.
🔹 Final Thoughts
Flick’s lineup balances experience and youth while adjusting to injury concerns. With Lewandowski spearheading the attack and Koundé fortifying the defense, Barcelona aims to secure a positive result ahead of the return leg.
From:- https://www.sport.es/es/noticias/barca/barcelona-atletico-champions-directo-128859683
