As Barcelona move into their second matchday of the La Liga 2024/25 season, there are certain players that have departed from the squad but there are few additions that are unlikely to make their way into the starting 11.
Leaving aside Barca’s exorbitant amount of injured talents, Ilkay Gundogan and Clement Lenglet will not be featuring in this matchup due to their departures to Manchester City and Atletico Madrid respectively.
Andreas Christensen also misses out on making the squad due to his recent injury which will have the Danish International missing out for an extended period of time.
In positive news, Fermin Lopez makes his return to the squad as he made his way back in training within the last week. Additionally, Dani Olmo has been included in the squad but with an asterisk contingent on the fact that his registration with La Liga could be completed.
According to SPORT, Barcelona have until 5 minutes before kickoff against Bilbao to register Dani Olmo and potentially feature him in the Starting 11. However, it is an unlikely possibility as the Catalans are still in financial turmoil.
Defense
In defense, Pau Cubarsi’s inclusion is fairly possible due to his exemplary performance against Valencia. To pair alongside him, Inigo Martinez is likely to feature due to Christensen’s unavailability because of his unfortunate injury.
Jules Kounde is most definitely set to feature as the team’s right back due to his experience and high level of performances in the role. However, the starting left back position can undergo a potential change.
Alejandro Balde was taken off due to injury against Valencia. Thankfully, the injury turned out to be a slight knock and the 20 year old is back in the Barca squad. Nevertheless, Flick could decide to opt for Alex Valle, who was greatly impressive during the US Pre Season Tour.
Midfield
After their immensely impressive performance against Valencia, Marc Bernal and Marc Casado are most definitely set to start against Bilbao as both the youngsters have made quite a good impression on Flick.
In the advanced midfield role, Pedri featuring in the starting 11 must be a necessity. The 21 year old reminded the Culers about his sheer talent in what was a majestic cameo in the second half against Valencia.
Attack
After his glorious brace, Robert Lewandowski is a guarantee to feature as the team’s sole striker. Whereas, the flanks are set to compose of the dynamic presence of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
Both wingers could interchange their flanks within the game, but Yamal is likely to start as Barca’s winger on the right while Raphinha would feature on Barca’s left flank.
