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9 months ago
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FC Barcelona is doing quite well. Before the draw for the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals in Nyon, Switzerland, the Camp Nou residents absolutely did not want to cross paths with Manchester City. If it ever happens, it will be in the final. Not before. Indeed, the Catalans, who would not have been against challenging Borussia Dortmund, will face Paris Saint-Germain next April. Quickly, the Spanish press indicated that Luis Enrique's troops were favorites, who include in their ranks the future Madrilenian Kylian Mbappé and the former Barcelona player Ousmane Dembélé.
The injured will soon return
Despite everything, the Blaugranas do not intend to appear as victims against the French champions. On the contrary, they have arguments to put forward, having been undefeated in 10 matches in all competitions. They rely in particular on several talents which can cause harm as indicated by a journalist fromEl Chiringuito Start of the week. “You (Mbappé) will know Cubarsí. We have to tell Cubarsí and the young people that they can do it against Mbappé or whoever. (…) When Mbappé sees Cubarsí, Fermín, Héctor Fort, he will say: “I want to leave here”.”
The match is therefore already underway on the other side of the Pyrenees. On the front line, Xavi is also preparing for this double meeting against PSG. A.S. explains that his first concern is to know which players he will be able to recover among those who are in the infirmary. The Iberian media explains that the Blaugrana medical staff told them that Ferran Torres (hamstring) and Frenkie de Jong (sprained right ankle) would be recovered and fit. Ditto for João Cancelo and Andreas Christensen, who were absent against Atlético de Madrid.
An eleven is already taking shape
On the other hand, no certainty concerning the presence or not of Pedri (right thigh). The staff does not want to take any risks with the environment, which continues to stay in the infirmary. If he ever gets back on his feet, it still seems complicated to see him join Xavi's eleven. The Spaniard already has an idea of the team that will start on April 10 against Paris, if of course the Culés are spared from injuries and the famous FIFA virus. Unsurprisingly, Marc-André ter Stegen will keep the goals with a defense in front of him made up of Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo and João Cancelo.
To win the midfield battle, Xavi risks aligning Christensen, to provide power and solidity. He will accompany Ilkay Gündogan and Frenkie de Jong. In attack, Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski are sure to start. On the other hand, Xavi hesitates between Raphinha or Ferran Torres, who will return from injury. The Brazilian seems to have the advantage but his coach has not yet decided one way or the other. The Barça coach hopes to win the round in Paris with this team combining youth and experience. But his plans could change again in three weeks…
Written by:
Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team.
 
 As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers.
 
 When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.
