Barcelona’s probable XI vs Valencia if there are no more registrations

Barcelona are gearing up to kick off their 2024-25 La Liga campaign this Saturday against Valencia. However, the club faces uncertainty as they have yet to determine if they can register several key players in time for the match. 

These players include Inigo Martinez, Dani Olmo, Pau Victor, Pablo Torre, and Alex Valle. The situation has left Barcelona’s head coach, Hansi Flick, with a challenging task as he prepares for the opening game of the season.

The registration of these players hinges on La Liga’s approval, which remains pending. Flick is hopeful that the necessary paperwork will be processed swiftly, but there is no guarantee that all the players will be eligible to play by Saturday. 

This delay in registration is particularly concerning given the importance of the season opener. Winning the first match often sets the tone for the rest of the season, and Flick is aware that he needs his best squad on the pitch to secure a strong start.

Barcelona’s probable playing XI against Valencia

Adding to Flick’s concerns is the fact that several crucial players are unavailable due to injuries. Ronald Araujo, Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, and Ansu Fati have all been ruled out of the match. 

However, on a slightly brighter note, Pedri has made significant progress in his recovery and could be included in the squad as a substitute. Meanwhile, Fermin Lopez is currently on a well-deserved holiday and will not be available for the match.

Barcelona will not have all players available for the opening clash against Valencia. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

Clement Lenglet, who is registered, is unlikely to feature in the match as his departure from the club appears imminent. Vitor Roque is another player whose status remains uncertain; he is not registered and is waiting for a loan or transfer to be finalised. 

Faced with these challenges, Flick has been working on a contingency plan. During Thursday’s training session, he tested a potential starting XI that excludes the unregistered players. 

The lineup he tried consisted of Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal; a defensive line featuring Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, and Alejandro Balde; a midfield anchored by Marc Casado and Andreas Christensen; and an attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Ilkay Gundogan, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski up front. 

What next for Barcelona?

The next few hours are crucial for Barcelona as they await confirmation on how many players they can register for the game against Valencia. 

Flick has made it clear that he prioritises strengthening the defence, with Martinez being a key request. Olmo’s registration is also of concern, given his current fitness level. 

The club’s management is working against the clock, as player registration can be completed up to five minutes before the match begins according to Mundo Deportivo. 

This means that the final decision on which players will be available for selection could be made at the very last moment, once the official team sheets are submitted to the referee.