Barcelona make the trip to Estadio Pedro Escartín to take on third-tier outfit CD Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey Round of 32 on Tuesday, as the holders begin the defence of the trophy they lifted last season.
Barcelona come into this clash in outstanding shape, having put together a run of five straight wins in all competitions.
Their league form has been particularly impressive, with victories over Alavés (3-1), Atlético Madrid (3-1), Real Betis (5-3) and Osasuna (2-0) in La Liga. They also edged Eintracht Frankfurt 2-1 in the Champions League. This sequence of results has them sitting at the top of La Liga, four points clear of their nearest challengers.
Barcelona team news
Head coach Hansi Flick has already indicated that he plans to rotate his side for this tie. First-choice goalkeeper Joan García is set to be given a rest ahead of upcoming key fixtures, with either Marc-André ter Stegen or Wojciech Szczesny expected to start between the posts.
Barcelona’s biggest fitness issue is Dani Olmo. The Spanish midfielder suffered a dislocated shoulder while scoring in a 3-1 win over Atlético Madrid on 2 December and is predicted to be sidelined for around a month, ruling him out for the rest of their 2025 fixtures.
At the back, Ronald Araújo is unavailable after being granted indefinite leave from the club to focus on his personal recovery, a decision confirmed by sporting director Deco.
Barcelona predicted lineup
Possible Barcelona starting XI: Szczesny; E Garcia, Cubarsi, Christensen, Jofre; Casado, Bernal; Bardghji, Fermin, Dro; Lewandowski.
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8pm BST on Tuesday, 16th December.
How to watch Guadalajara vs Barcelona?
For viewers in the UK, the Guadalajara vs Barcelona clash in the Copa del Rey will be broadcast live on Premier Sports 1.
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