Who Will Replace Gündogan Against Almería?
Xavi Announces Rotations with Ferran and João Félix Likely to Start
FC Barcelona aims to secure the runner-up position in La Liga with a win against Almería on Thursday, ending a title-less season on a positive note. Xavi Hernández’s squad will be without injured players Balde and Gavi, as well as the suspended Ilkay Gündogan. One of the main questions is who will replace the German midfielder, with Xavi confirming pre-match that he plans to rotate his lineup.
“There will be rotations, I might make one change per line. We need fresh legs,” Xavi stated in the press conference. In defense, Marcos Alonso might get a start, as he is set to leave Barça at the end of the season. Araujo, dealing with some discomfort, is unlikely to be forced to play, making Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez the probable center-back pairing, though Kounde could also be an option.
In midfield, Sergi Roberto, who was on the bench against Real Sociedad, could start. Fermín is another candidate for a starting spot, with both competing for a place. If fit, Christensen might take the defensive midfield role, while Pedri is expected to remain in the lineup, especially given Gündogan’s absence. Pedri and Christensen were both substituted in the 70th minute on Monday, conserving their energy. Oriol Romeu is less likely to start.
Ferran and João Félix Could Join Lewandowski Up Front
In the attack, Lewandowski is a certainty, still vying for the ‘Pichichi’ title. Changes are expected on the wings since Lamine Yamal and Raphinha played the full match against Real Sociedad. This opens the door for Ferran Torres and João Félix to start.
Ferran Torres, who almost scored against Real Sociedad, is aiming to solidify his position as the team’s second-highest scorer with 11 goals. João Félix, with 10 goals, sat out the last match and is keen to seize any opportunity to impress, given the uncertainty about his future. Vitor Roque, despite the media focus, is likely to start on the bench.
