Barcelona starting lineup against Atlético Madrid in Copa del Rey

Hansi Flick will be without several key players for the Copa del Rey showdown against Atlético de Madrid. Two of those absences have come virtually at the last minute: neither Rashford nor Raphinha has recovered in time from their respective issues, while Pedri’s absence had already been factored into the coaching staff’s plans, with hopes of having him back within two weeks.

What will Barça’s XI be for Copa del Rey tonight?

Under these circumstances, the German coach will be forced into a number of changes to his starting lineup, particularly on the left flank, where both natural specialists will be missing. Dani Olmo is expected to slot in on that side, with Ferran Torres leading the line as the No. 9 and an in-form Lamine Yamal operating down the right.

Pedri’s absence is a significant constraint, especially in a game of such intensity and demands. Flick must choose between Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal – the former appears to have a slight edge given the poor state of the pitch – to partner Frenkie de Jong in midfield. The Dutchman will in fact be one of the changes to the starting XI after sitting out the clash with Mallorca due to pubic discomfort. The midfield trio will be rounded out by Fermín López in the attacking midfield role.

Few major adjustments are expected in defense. Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde are set to continue on the flanks, with Pau Cubarsí and Eric García at center back. In goal, Joan García will remain between the posts, aiming to record his 12th clean sheet of the season.

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