Barcelona will aim to return to winning ways and end a memorable 2024/25 campaign on a high when they lock horns with Athletic Club at San Mames on Sunday night. Hansi Flick has no new injury concerns hampering his preparations ahead of his side’s latest fixture.
Jules Kounde, Marc Casado, Marc Bernal, Ferran Torres, and Pablo Torre, although each player should be available for the pre-season campaign in a few weeks. In addition, Flick is sweating over Ronald Araujo’s fitness, with the Uruguayan international struggling with a minor muscle injury.
Meanwhile, during his pre-match press conference, Flick did not provide a fitness update on any player. However, the German tactician discussed the futures of several stars, including Wojciech Szczesny, Ronald Araujo, and Ansu Fati.
Discussed Szczesny’s future, the Barcelona manager said, “The most important thing, and I have spoken to Deco about it, is that the important players stay to guarantee Barça’s future. Deco knows what we can strengthen. We talk a lot with Deco and we are on the same wavelength.”
On Araujo, Flick said, “Of course, he signed his renewal. I believe in him 100%. It was not an easy season for him, with Cubarsi and Inigo so settled but I am sure that Araujo will improve a lot the following season.”
Finally, Ansu Fati’s future is uncertain, and the Barcelona boss said, “It’s not my decision, he has a contract and he will make the decision. When he wants to talk to me we’ll talk about it, but it’s up to him.”
Marc-Andre ter Stegen will retain his spot between the sticks, with the away side lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him against Athletic Club on Sunday. The backline should feature Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, and Alejandro Balde.
As for the midfield unit, Frenkie de Jong will replace Gavi as Pedri’s partner in the double pivot. Dani Olmo will likely reprise the no. 10 role, with Fermin Lopez dropping to the bench. Finally, Robert Lewandowski will lead the line for the newly crowned La Liga champions, with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal being the two wide attackers.
Predicted Barcelona XI: ter Stegen; Garcia, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; Pedri, de Jong; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski
