De Jong, Rashford start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Atletico Madrid
De Jong, Rashford start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Atletico Madrid FC Barcelona play their most important game of the season so far when they take on Atletico Madrid later tonight at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. The Blaugrana suffered a 0-2 loss to Diego Simeone’s side in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie last week at the Spotify Camp Nou. So, in order to progress in the competition, the Catalans will need to score at least three goals while ensuring that Atleti do not find the back of the net in the best-case scenario.
It will not be easy, but Barcelona will draw confidence from the fact that they have beaten Atletico Madrid three times this season across all competitions – once even at the Metropolitano a little over a week ago in La Liga. Moreover, the return of Frenkie de Jong from injury provides Hansi Flick & co. a major boost, even though they continue to be without Raphinha and Andreas Christensen.
Pau Cubarsi misses out due to suspension. Flick has some major decisions to make with regard to his team selection for tonight’s game. And, here’s how Barcelona are likely to set up against Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano.
Defence Joan Garcia is an undisputed starter between the sticks for Barcelona and his keeping a clean sheet could go a long way in helping his team achieve a comeback tonight. Meanwhile, there will be an enforced change in defence as Pau Cubarsi is suspended after receiving a red card in the first leg. Eric Garcia , who has played in midfield in recent matches, is expected to move into the backline to fill the void.
Eric will pair up with Gerard Martin , who is fit after an injury scare during the Catalan derby against Espanyol over the weekend. As for the full-back positions, Flick is expected to back Jules Kounde once again at right-back, despite his dull display in the first leg. Joao Cancelo , who was rested at the weekend, will replace Alejandro Balde on the left.