Barcelona are aiming for a place in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Europa League as they take on Napoli in the second leg of the knockout stage. The Blaugrana had drawn the first leg 1-1 at Camp Nou, but with no away goals rule, simply a win could be enough for Xavi Hernandez’s men to seal a ticket to the next round.
Predicted Barcelona Lineup vs Napoli
Defence
Heading into this game, Xavi is set to be boosted by the return of Gerard Pique. The veteran defender had missed the Valencia game due to suspension but is now available for action. Ronald Araujo is also available, so it won’t be surprising to see the Uruguayan forming the central defensive duo for Barca, alongside the experienced figure of Pique.
There should be no changes elsewhere in defence, as Sergino Dest look to continue at right-back, whereas Jordi Alba remains a guaranteed starter on the opposite flank. Their collective contributions going forward could be pivotal in Barca’s chance creation, though they need to be equally wary defensively.
There is no looking past Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal, with the German hoping for a clean sheet that could go a long way in boosting his side’s chances of advancing further in the competition.
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Midfield
Frenkie de Jong is a slight doubt heading into this game after picking up a knock in the last match. The Dutchman’s uncertainty should see Gavi being given the start in central midfield, alongside fellow La Masia graduate in Pedri.
Both Gavi and Pedri could play a key role in offering the creative essence in the middle of the park, whereas the onus will be on defensive midfielder Sergio Busquets to offer stability and steady the ship in possession.
Attack
Moving forward, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang appears to be a surefire starter after bagging a hat-trick against Valencia. While the Gabonese international will lead the line for Barca, he is likely to be supported by the wide attacking duo of Adama Traore and Ferran Torres.
Xavi has no shortage of alternatives as well, with Ousmane Dembele and Nico also vying for a place in the starting eleven, whereas Luuk de Jong and Martin Braithwaite are potential alternatives to Aubameyang in the number nine role.
