Pedri, Fermin start in a 4-2-3-1: How Barcelona could line up against Bayern Munich

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick prepares to face his former club Bayern Munich in a crucial UEFA Champions League clash, with several key decisions made regarding his starting eleven.

The Blaugrana head into tomorrow’s contest on the back of a thumping victory over Sevilla and will be eager to come out on top against a team that has had their number in the recent past.

With several important players returning from injury, Flick has a near full-strength squad, although there are some notable absences like Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Marc Bernal, and Eric Garcia.

There are likely to be a few changes to the side that took the field against Sevilla as Barcelona prepare to lock horns with Bayern Munich at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys tomorrow.

Defence

The defensive unit is unlikely to see any alternations or adjustments, with Inaki Pena continuing between the posts in the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

The backline will see Jules Kounde continuing at the right-back position. The Frenchman will be crucial in containing Bayern’s wide threats from Alphonso Davies and Serge Gnabry.

The central defensive partnership presents an intriguing combination of youth and experience. Young sensation Pau Cubarsi, who has been impressive in recent appearances, will partner with the veteran Inigo Martinez.

Completing the defensive lineup will be Alejandro Balde at left-back, whose pace and attacking prowess will be essential in providing width and supporting the forward line.

Midfield

The midfield department is where things get interesting for Flick as he has a plethora of options for just three positions on the field.

Pedri’s form and influence means that he is a certainty to feature from the get-go and it is likely that the Spanish international will operate from a deeper position as one of the pivots. Given that Frenkie de Jong is recovering from discomfort, a start appears unlikely.

The 2021 Golden Boy is likely to be paired up with Marc Casado, who has been a revelation this season. The young La Masia gem will go up against Joshua Kimmich – the player who he has been compared with by his Barça teammates.

Flick will have to make a major decision in the No. 10 role as he must choose between deploying Raphinha through the middle or using one of Dani Olmo or Fermin Lopez, who returned from injury this past weekend.

But Fermin Lopez could end up getting the nod, with Olmo not getting any minutes against Sevilla indicating he still needs time to get back his rhythm.

Pablo Torre, who scored a brace against Sevilla, will again be an option from the bench, along with Gavi.

Attack

Barcelona’s preferred front three this season presents an exciting blend of youth, experience, and flair.

Lamine Yamal continues his meteoric rise, starting on the right wing. The teenage sensation’s quality and dribbling skills could cause significant problems for Bayern’s defence.

Central to the attack will be Robert Lewandowski, facing his former club and hoping to continue his red-hot streak this season. The Polish striker’s experience and clinical finishing will be crucial against his old team.

Completing the attacking trio will be Raphinha on the left wing, who continues to be one of the standout players for Barcelona this season.