Hansi Flick’s Barcelona travels as they face Elche in their opening La Liga fixture of the season on Sunday.
The reigning champions, FC Barcelona, finally begin their long-awaited campaign tonight after summer tournament commitments delayed their start. Fresh off a title-winning season that featured an impressive 31 victories, Flick’s side enters the new term with strong momentum. They sharpened their match readiness in mid-August during pre-season friendlies, including a big 5-2 win over FC Basel and a 2-1 success versus Al Ahly to claim the Trofeo Joan Gamper.
Barcelona team news
Barcelona starts the league with notable rotation because of injury and fitness issues across the squad. Midfielder Frenkie de Jong is sidelined with a knee problem, while marquee signing Rodri is unavailable after missing training.
Key attackers Pedri, Gavi, and Dani Olmo are not at full match fitness and are expected to begin the game on the bench.
With Robert Lewandowski having left the club, teenager Hamza Abdelkarim looks set to lead the line after an eye-catching pre-season. New wide options Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi could make their debuts alongside Lamine Yamal.
In central areas, youngsters Marc Bernal and Xavi Espart are likely to take on increased responsibility.
At the back, João Cancelo may start from the bench due to limited training time, which would see Alejandro Balde preferred at full-back, while Andreas Christensen and Gerard Martín are slated to form the central pairing ahead of goalkeeper Joan García.
Barcelona predicted lineup
Possible Barcelona starting XI: J Garcia; E Garcia, Christensen, Martin, Balde; Espart, Bernal; Yamal, Raphinha, Gordon; Abdelkarim
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8:30pm BST on Sunday, 23rd August.
How to watch Elche vs Barcelona?
For viewers in the UK, the Elche CF vs FC Barcelona match will be broadcast live on Premier Sports 1.
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