The last week for FC Barcelona has consisted of a great deal of news with regards to their set of injured players. Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez make an entry into Barca’s injury list with the latter expected to make a swift recovery while the former set to miss atleast a month of football which will prevent them from featuring in Barca’s Starting 11 against Villarreal.
In positive news, Frenkie De Jong has returned to training and Gavi continues to train with the group since his return to training. Ansu Fati was also able to return to the Barca squad midweek against Monaco and even had some minutes on the pitch, hence he may be able to feature in Flick’s Starting 11 against Villarreal.
Unfortunately, no positive developments have been made in the recoveries from the extensive injuries of Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen who are set to miss months of football.
Defense
Ter Stegen is guaranteed to start in the Barca goal despite his unfortunate performance midweek. Additionally, we will once again see the center back pairing of Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez start as they are the only fit center backs within the squad.
The flanks are also set to compose of Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde in Barca’s Starting 11 against Villarreal. No rest is expected to be given due to the competitive nature of the fixture itself.
Midfield
Pedri and Marc Casado are a guarantee to start in the midfield due to their stunning run of form. However, that 3rd midfield spot could potentially be occupied by either Pablo Torre or Flick could opt to repeat his decision of starting Eric Garcia in a defensive midfield role.
Attack
Barcelona’s prolific frontline of Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal is set to start yet again as their immense output cannot be discarded against an opposition as tough as Villarreal.
