Barcelona returns to the Champions League on Tuesday against Olympiacos.
The defeat in Gameweek 2 means Barcelona cannot afford many more slip-ups if they want to qualify for the Champions League knockout stages via the league stage.
Had Barca maintained their lead against the European champions last time out, Hansi Flick might have been more willing to rest and rotate ahead of Saturday’s Clásico. However, their need for points means this is not a match they can sacrifice.
The German, as things stand, is suspended for Saturday’s duel after receiving his marching orders just before Ronald Araújo scored a spectacular winner against Girona at the weekend.
Flick has plenty to think about in midweek, and here is the starting XI he could choose for the visit of Olympiacos.
GK: Wojciech Szczęsny— Barca’s current problems mean the experienced Pole is in for a busy evening on Tuesday, and he could well play a crucial role in ensuring the hosts return to winning ways in this competition.
RB: Jules Koundé—Flick could change things up and give Koundé a break, especially after playing the entire game on Saturday. If he starts, he will only be able to play for an hour.
CB: Ronald Araújo— Araújo’s exploits this weekend came from a center forward position, and Flick could give his captain the chance to build on that moment here.
CB: Pau Cubarsi—Eric García is set to partner the teenager for Saturday’s Clásico, but Araújo is set to get the nod in midweek. Let’s see if this defensive partnership proves more successful against Olympiacos than in the past.
CEO: Alejandro Balde— The Spaniard has yet to hit the top gear this season, having been instrumental in Barcelona’s success last season before his injury. Balde will share the minutes with Gerard Martín on Tuesday.
CM: Marc Casadó—Maybe this is the day Pedri gets a break. It must be, right? Casadó will therefore have the mission to make the best impression of his compatriot here.
CM: Frenkie de Jong—De Jong was used in a more advanced role late this weekend, but he will assume his usual role here and hand over the armband to Araújo.
AD: Roony Bardghji—Lamine Yamal was fit to start this weekend, but Flick would do well to rest his star winger for Saturday’s game. If he does, there will be an opportunity for low-key summer signing Bardghji to impress.
AM: Fermín López—The crafty Spain international was back in action this weekend, and there may be a place for him in the starting XI in the absence of Dani Olmo.
AG: Marcus Rashford—Rashford spearheaded Barcelona’s attack against Girona and saw a superb free kick denied by the woodwork. With Raphinha suffering a setback in his recovery from a thigh injury, Rashford is expected to start again here. We hope the Brazilian will be fit for the trip to Madrid.
ST: Ferran Torres— Torres is believed to have missed Saturday’s win as a precaution, and Barça’s absences in attack forced 17-year-old Toni Fernández to start against Girona. The teenager is an option here, but if Torres was able to shake off his jab, Flick could use it early on.
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