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6 months ago
40 ARTICLE AD
Barcelona travels to Naples this Wednesday in the round of 16 first leg of the Champions League (9 p.m.). Here is the expected line-up for the Catalan club.
What if the Champions League allowed Barça to get back on track? It is with this objective that the Catalan club approaches its first round against Naples, in the round of 16, at the Diego Armando Maradona stadium, this Wednesday evening (kick-off at 9 p.m.).
Xavi is aware that despite the heavy context surrounding Napoli, the Italian team could revolt. “IWe will have to defend well against their offensive trident, which is very strong. Osimhen, Kvaratskhelia and Politano can make the difference »warned the technician, plunged into uncertainty after the change of coach in the opposing camp. “It’s not an easy match to prepare for, because we don’t know what to expect, it’s 50/50. Naples changed coach in a surprising way, they have their reasons. The new coach knows the house well, and I don’t know what tactical scheme, what system he will use. What’s important is to focus on our game.”
Xavi makes a strong choice
With which starting eleven? The Barcelona infirmary is still well stocked. Marcos Alonso, Balde, Gavi and Ferran Torres are all out of this match on Italian soil.
Barça should present themselves in a 4-3-3 formation with the start of the nugget Yamal in attack, alongside Lewandowski and Raphinha. In the midfield, the Gündogan-De Jong-Pedri trio holds up well. Koundé is expected on the right side, while Cancelo should occupy the left flank, in a defensive line completed by the Araujo-Martinez hinge. Ter Stegen will take his place in the Barcelona goals.
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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.
