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3 days ago
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Barcelona will face Celta Vigo tonight in a crucial match, but they will do so without the services of young sensation Lamine Yamal. His absence will undoubtedly impact the starting lineup, and Barcelona will need to adjust their tactics accordingly.
Celta Vigo come into this game full of confidence, having gone unbeaten in their last two outings. The home team has also been strong at their stadium, picking up 13 of their 17 points this season in front of their own supporters.
For Barcelona, the stakes are high. After suffering a disappointing loss to Real Sociedad, they are determined to bounce back and maintain their six-point lead at the top of La Liga.
Despite having the best away record in the league, having earned 18 points from eight games, Barcelona have suffered both of their league defeats on the road.
A poor result against Celta Vigo could shrink their lead over Real Madrid, making this match even more important.
While Barcelona will be missing several key players, including Ansu Fati, Lamine Yamal, and Ferran Torres, the return of experienced figures like Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo to the starting XI should provide a boost.
With these key players available, Barcelona still have the strength to put in a strong performance against a determined Celta side. Now, let’s take a look at how Barcelona might line up against Celta Vigo tonight.
Defence
Inaki Pena will be Barcelona’s goalkeeper. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
In goal, Barcelona will rely on Inaki Pena, who has become the undisputed first-choice keeper. Despite the temptation to start Wojciech Szczesny, manager Hansi Flick has always backed Pena, and there is no reason to think he will change his stance now.
On the right side of the defence, Jules Kounde is expected to continue his excellent form. Kounde has been a rock for Barcelona this season and has not missed a game since 2023, so Flick will be reluctant to drop him.
The central defensive partnership will feature Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi, who have formed a solid duo at the back.
However, there might be a slight change on the left side of the defence. Alejandro Balde, who has been crucial for Barcelona this season, is not fully fit for this match.
If he is unavailable, Gerard Martin is the most likely candidate to step in and fill the void on the left flank.
Midfield
Gavi is likely to start against Celta Vigo. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
In the midfield, Flick faces a tough decision due to the number of talented options at his disposal. Marc Casado is expected to keep his place in the starting lineup after impressing in recent matches.
The other midfield spot is likely to be a battle between Gavi and Frenkie de Jong. Based on previous reports, Gavi is expected to get the nod, meaning that de Jong might have to settle for a spot on the bench.
With Casado and Gavi in midfield, Pedri is likely to move into a more advanced role, where he has thrived in the past. This would be part of Flick’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, giving Barcelona the flexibility to control the game in the middle while also providing offensive support.
Attack
Dani Olmo could feature on the right wing. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
With Yamal out of the picture, Flick has a few options for the attack. However, the most logical solution seems to be using Dani Olmo on the left wing, where he has performed well in the past.
On the right side, Raphinha will return to his preferred position and provide his usual pace and flair to threaten Celta’s defence.
Up front, Robert Lewandowski will lead the line for Barcelona. After recovering from a back injury, he is back to full fitness and will be eager to get back to scoring ways.
His presence in attack will be crucial for Barcelona, as they look to take control of the match and bounce back from their previous defeat.
