"After the massive physical exertions against Atlético Madrid on Tuesday and with a monster Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Newcastle just around the corner, Hansi Flick will have to be careful about picking a strong team on Saturday while also making sure his side is fully fit for the trip to England."
"There's not much that can be done at the back, however, as injuries to Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde have severely limited the defensive options available. Only five first team defenders are fit, and we think the coach will pick Eric Garcia at right-back, Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín at center-back, and João Cancelo at left-back."
"Marc Bernal and Pedri were extraordinary in midweek but were also among the players most exhausted at the end of the game against Atleti, so it's safe to assume Flick will rest both for Newcastle and start Marc Casadó at the base of midfield, with Fermín López and Dani Olmo playing as number 8s in a more classic 4-3-3 structure."
Barcelona travels to Athletic Club's San Mamés stadium seeking their fourth consecutive win in all competitions while maintaining their La Liga lead. Manager Hansi Flick faces the challenge of fielding a competitive team while preserving player fitness for an upcoming Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Newcastle. Defensive injuries to Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde limit options, forcing Flick to deploy Eric Garcia at right-back with Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín at center-back. Midfield exhaustion from the Atlético Madrid match suggests resting Marc Bernal and Pedri in favor of Marc Casadó, Fermín López, and Dani Olmo. Raphinha's fatigue and recent injury concerns may lead to Marcus Rashford starting on the left, with Ferran Torres leading the line and Lamine Yamal on the right wing.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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