Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick is preparing for a fascinating tactical battle against Valencia at Mestalla, with several changes expected as the Catalan giants look to maintain their perfect start to the LaLiga campaign.
The predicted lineup shown in the graphic features a heavily rotated Barcelona side, with some eye-catching selections that could completely change the way Flick’s team approaches the match.
Joan García is expected to continue in goal, while the defensive line could see João Cancelo, Gerard Martín, Pau Cubarsí and Eric García given the responsibility of protecting the Barcelona goal.
The midfield is where things get particularly interesting.
Rodri could be handed a major role alongside Pedri and Fermín López, creating a midfield combination packed with technical quality, control and experience. Rodri’s potential inclusion is one of the biggest talking points surrounding Flick’s selection, especially with Barcelona’s Champions League opener against Feyenoord also approaching. Reports suggest the former Manchester City midfielder is in contention for his first LaLiga start for Barcelona.
Further forward, the predicted XI features Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi operating from the wings, with Raphinha positioned centrally.
That attacking setup would give Barcelona plenty of pace and directness. Gordon has made an explosive start to life at Barcelona, while Adeyemi offers another dimension with his speed and ability to attack space.
Raphinha, meanwhile, remains one of Flick’s most trusted attacking players. The Brazilian has already enjoyed a brilliant start to the campaign and is expected to remain a key figure against Valencia.
The biggest uncertainty remains Lamine Yamal.
The teenage superstar missed Barcelona’s final group training session after suffering a knock, leaving Flick with a major decision to make. Yamal has travelled with the squad, but his availability for the starting XI remains uncertain. If Flick decides not to risk him, Adeyemi could be the player who benefits most.
Barcelona currently have 24 players in the travelling squad, meaning Flick must also leave one player out of the final matchday group. Gavi and Gabriel Jesus are among the notable inclusions, while Frenkie de Jong and Roony Bardghji remain unavailable.
There is plenty at stake at Mestalla.
Barcelona enter the fourth round of LaLiga with nine points from nine, while Valencia have collected just one point from their opening three matches. A victory would strengthen Barcelona’s position at the summit, particularly after Real Madrid dropped points against Real Betis.
Flick therefore has several difficult calls to make. Does he trust Yamal from the start? Does Rodri finally receive his first league start? Can Raphinha continue leading the attack? And who ultimately misses out from the 24-man squad?
The answers could make this Valencia clash far more intriguing than the league table suggests.
