FC Barcelona will clash heads with Athletic Club on Saturday night, looking to win their first trophy of the season. Barca will head into the contest on the back of a disappointing 2-1 loss to Real Madrid, whereas The Lions recorded a 0-0 draw against Alaves last week.
Ronald Koeman will probably opt for a 4-3-3 formation with a couple of tweaks from their last game. Gerard Pique might get the nod over Ronald Araujo, whereas Antoine Griezmann looks likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
4-3-3 Barcelona Predicted Lineup Vs Athletic Club
Defence
Marc-Andre ter Stegen is expected to start in between the sticks for the upcoming cup clash. The German shot-stopper would hope to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Saturday.
Gerard Pique will partner Clement Lenglet at the heart of Barcelona’s backline as they try to neutralise Athletic Club’s attacking threats throughout the ninety minutes.
Koeman could opt for more defensive options on the pitch against Marcelino Garcia Toral’s men, and hence, Oscar Mingueza might start at the right-back position. Jordi Alba will continue to fill in on the other side as the left-back.
Midfield
Sergio Busquets and Frenkie de Jong are expected to fulfil the holding midfield positions, with the latter occupying a more central role.
Pedri will slot into the attacking midfield position. The Spaniard failed to produce his best against Real Madrid last week; however, he’ll be determined to set up some clear cut goal scoring chances for the front men this time.
Ilaix Moriba will have to settle for a place on the bench, but he might come on in the latter stages of the game if required.
Attack
Ousmane Dembele and Lionel Messi will take up the wide positions, looking to stretch their side’s attack and simultaneously cut inside when given the space and opportunity.
Antoine Griezmann will lead the line for Barcelona this weekend. The French striker will be hoping to make the most of his chances when he faces off against the Athletic defence that has kept two clean sheets in their last five games across all competitions.
