Predicted Barcelona lineup to face Leganes

An incredible turnaround under Hansi Flick has brightened the Catalans’ treble dreams. After a scintillating 4-0 win against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final, high-flying Barcelona will travel to Leganes to clash heads with the relegation-riddled La Liga outfit on Saturday night.

Barca have a four-point cushion over second-placed Real Madrid at the top of the league standings. A win against Leganes could extend their lead, thus mounting the pressure further before Los Blancos’ outing with Alaves a day later. Los Pepineros stunned the Blaugrana at Camp Nou in the reverse tie, and the gaffer must not opt for significant rotations regardless of their fixture congestion.

Predicted 4-2-3-1 Barcelona Lineup To Face Leganes

Defence

Although Marc-Andre ter Stegan is back in training, the German custodian must not be rushed into action with Wojciech Szczęsny exhibiting his mastery between the sticks week in, and week out. Having made his presence known against BVB, the veteran Polish custodian should aim for successive clean sheets.

BARCELONA, SPAIN – DECEMBER 15: Gavi of FC Barcelona battles for possession with Yvan Neyou of CD Leganes during the LaLiga match between FC Barcelona and CD Leganes at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on December 15, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The emergence of Pau Cubarsi and Alejandro Balde through the esteemed ranks of La Masia boosts Flick with ample options across the backline. The latter is expected to keep his place down the left ahead of Gerard Martin, and so is Cubarsi, who, however, could partner with Ronald Araujo in the heart of the backline. Veteran Inigo Martinez might make way for the Uruguayan to avoid fatigue and fitness woes. Jules Kounde should feature from the right, and the manager might bring in 18-year-old Hector Fort at some stage to replace the Frenchman. Versatile Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen could also be involved as central defensive and midfield covers.

Midfield

Frenkie de Jong has redeemed his lost charm as a ‘number six’. The Dutchman should partner with Pedri and form a ‘double pivot’ in the middle of the park. Injuries to Marc Casado and Marc Bernal decimate them deep down the pitch.

Despite Dani Olmo’s muscle strain and potential absence, Barcelona have two young creative outlets in Gavi and Fermin Lopez. Lopez was impressive on Wednesday night but could be rotated with Gavi, who shone last weekend in their 1-1 draw against Real Betis. Having fired in 27 goals and 18 assists in 45 games, Raphinha remains irreplaceable down the left. Also, Flick dismissed any concerns over Lamine Yamal’s fitness after the teenager was forced off the pitch late in their European encounter. The Spanish sensation must operate from the right with Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati waiting for opportunities.

Attack

Robert Lewandowski is still doing his job at the age of 36. So far, he has netted 38 times, which include 25 league goals. The Polish hitman must be aiming for more while spearheading the attack against Borja Jiménez’s men.