As Barcelona are set to face Bayern Munich in a much-awaited clash on Tuesday night, changes are expected to the Spanish giants’ lineup against Cadiz in their upcoming clash.
Ahead of the contest on Saturday, we assess the potential ins and outs and the reasons behind them.
Raphinha for Dembele
So far, Ousmane Dembele has started the season on fire. And on a number of occasions, the Frenchman has wreaked havoc alongside Raphinha in the side.
However, with the former Leeds United talisman being rested in Barcelona’s 5-1 rout against Viktoria Plzen, with Dembele instead starting on the right wing, a return for the former is likely.
Operating in his natural role, Raphinha is expected to thrive, as he has during his early days at the Spotify Camp Nou.
With the Brazilian international getting key minutes under his belt and Ousmane Dembele getting a breather, the pair will enter the big-game clash against Bayern Munich in ideal fashion.
Gavi for Kessie
Despite Franck Kessie scoring his first-ever goal for Barcelona against Plzen, it is likely that Gavi will return to the fold against Cadiz.
The latter was given a breather in his side’s Champions League opener but so far, he has started in every league clash for the Catalan heavyweights.
Picking up exactly where he left off from last season, the Spanish international is a sure shot starter for Xavi’s men, and will be key to his side getting another three points on the board.
Torres for Fati
With Ansu Fati slowly but surely reintegrated into the Barcelona side after injury this term, he started his first game of the season in the Champions League on Wednesday night
However, it is expected that a precautionary measure could be taken in the Spanish international’s case, especially with the clash against the Bavarian giants on the horizon.
Considering Ferran Torres is coming off registering a goal and an assist off the bench against Plzen, bringing him into the side as the left winger at Cadiz seems on the cards.
Pique for Kounde
Up until this point, Gerard Pique has played a minimal role for Barcelona in the 2022/23 campaign. Playing a mere 44 minutes in the ongoing season, it’s clear to see that his boyhood club have started to look at life beyond his legendary presence.
However, with Jules Kounde starting in the past three matches, and especially at centre-back in the last game, Pique could return to the side as a direct replacement.
In the meantime, the former Sevilla hero can be rested ahead of the titanic tie against Bayern Munich.
Busquets for de Jong
With Busquets starting three out of the first four La Liga games this season, he still remains a crucial figure in the side. However, the veteran was benched against Plzen, with de Jong operating as the number six in his absence.
As the plan could remain the same against Bayern, the 36-year old may be in line for a start against Cadiz, with Frenkie de Jong rested ahead of the big game.