Barcelona Contemplates Key Rotations as Joao Felix Awaits Starting Role

Barcelona is set to reconnect with its fans 39 days after its last appearance at Montjuïc, a narrow victory against Almería (3-2). Since then, Joao Felix, who was substituted by Xavi at halftime on that day, has primarily been a starter in the Copa del Rey ties against Barbastro and Unionistas. With only 27 minutes in La Liga, 58 in the Spanish Super Cup, and 48 (including extra time) in the Copa clash against Athletic, the Portuguese forward’s contributions have been limited across five matches where the team let two titles slip away.

Considering the strain on the squad due to injuries, Xavi is contemplating rotations for the Villarreal visit, especially after the exertions in San Mamés. Speculation suggests Joao Felix may find himself in the starting lineup, given his relatively fresher state compared to most of his attacking peers. Ferran Torres, who has started seven consecutive matches, might get a breather as well. Lamine Yamal, despite earning Xavi’s trust with solid performances, could return to the bench.

Oriol Romeu could be another potential addition to the starting eleven. With Gavi sidelined, Gündogan and De Jong carrying heavy workloads, this match against Villarreal provides an opportune moment for Romeu to get some playing time. Pedri, who has accumulated significant minutes since returning from injury, may also benefit from a cautious approach and could be chosen for a rest at the beginning.

Xavi may consider Fermín as an option, potentially allowing Gündogan or De Jong to take a break, although such extensive rotation in the midfield may not be straightforward, at least from the start.

Objective: Keeping a Clean Sheet Barcelona aims to bounce back after its Copa del Rey elimination to stay in the Liga title race. In addition to securing a win, the team targets keeping a clean sheet, a feat achieved in only ten out of 32 games this season. In the last ten matches, Barcelona conceded 21 goals, with only one clean sheet against Osasuna in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal (2-0). The four goals conceded against Girona, Real Madrid, and Athletic remain particularly painful.