Barcelona will be aiming to reclaim their place at the top of the league table as they lock horns with Levante this afternoon.
Hansi Flick’s men were handed a gift on Saturday as Real Madrid fell to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Osasuna. That means Barcelona can return on top if they can secure a victory against Levante.
However, confidence isn’t exactly sky high in the Barça camp as the team is coming on the back of two consecutive defeats against Atletico Madrid and Girona, respectively.
Heading into this game, Hansi Flick has been handed some good news, with Pedri returning to training. The coach has confirmed he is fit enough to play a few minutes. Marcus Rashford, too, has rejoined training.
While Gavi has made significant strides as well, his return to the pitch could still be a few weeks away, with Flick sounding extra cautious during his pre-match press conference.
Here’s how Barcelona are likely to take the field today against Luis Castro’s side.
Defence
Flick is unlikely to make too many changes from the side that lost to Girona on Monday.
Joan Garcia will continue in between the sticks as ever, with the Spaniard eyeing his first call-up to the Spanish national team for next month.
In defence, Jules Kounde is one of three players running a suspension risk. But he will continue at right-back, with Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia operating in central defence.
There might be one change in the left-back position, with Alejandro Balde replacing Gerard Martin, who is another player running a suspension risk after picking up four yellow cards.
Midfield
Things get a bit more interesting in the Barcelona midfield, where the return of Pedri should greatly change the equation.
Frenkie de Jong will be a key cog in Barcelona midfield vs Levante. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
However, for now, Pedri is unlikely to start and may only appear as a late substitute, as Barcelona look to avoid taking any risks.
Frenkie de Jong looks certain to start, although the Dutchman may have to approach with caution, as he is just one yellow card away from being suspended for the next league game against Villarreal.
Marc Casado is a potential option alongside de Jong. But we expect Hansi Flick to opt for a more attacking lineup that could see Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez operate as advanced midfielders.
That means Flick is unlikely to make any changes from the midfield that started against Girona, although the pressure will be immense on Olmo and Fermin to deliver that creativity in the final third.
Attack
Flick is set to make one key change in the attacking department, with Robert Lewandowski likely to replace Ferran Torres in the number nine role.
The Pole has been a vital cog for the Barça frontline and will need to be at the top of his game against Levante this afternoon.
Lewandowski will be supported by Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, who is the only Barcelona player following the Ramadan fast.
Due to the timing of this encounter, Yamal will be playing without any food or water – a situation Barcelona are prepared for.