Inigo Martinez in, €55m player out — Predicted Barcelona starting XI for UCL clash against Benfica | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to soon take on SL Benfica in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie. With the first leg being set in Portugal, La Blaugrana will need to show up in the opposition’s home stadium. Fortunately for Barcelona, they know what it is like to win there.

Having already beaten Benfica during their league phase encounter in Portugal, Barça should be confident now as well. Moreover, with the kind of quality that Hansi Flick has at his disposal, he can field a strong enough lineup for this game to get a positive result.

Here is how Barcelona could line up for this European encounter.

Predicted Barcelona XI vs Benfica

Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczesny

As the Polish goalkeeper continues to be good luck for Barcelona in a way, Hansi Flick continues to rely on him. The veteran Pole has proven his shot-stopping ability this season, and he will need to be at his best against a strong Benfica side that loves to attack.

Right-back: Jules Kounde

The Frenchman is among Hansi Flick’s most used players this season, and he has remained consistent throughout. His defensive skill is undeniable, but he has also turned himself into an offensive asset on the flank as well.

Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi

Despite his young age, Pau Cubarsi has already established himself as one of the world football’s most talented defenders. Having gone up against some of the game’s best players and having come out on top against them, the Spaniard has all the qualities to succeed in this game as well.

Centre-back: Inigo Martinez

In terms of experience and maturity, Barcelona have few options as effective as Inigo Martinez. Being a talented left-footed player, he has the ability to play as the left-sided centre-back and be a threat in terms of his ball progression, but he is also a defensive powerhouse by himself.

While Ronald Araujo started the last game, the €55 million-rated Uruguayan centre-back could start this game on the bench. In terms of maintaining the high-line and ball progression, Martinez fits the bill better.

Left-back: Alejandro Balde

With the Spanish left-back having the ability to break through opposition defenders with his pace and dribbling, his involvement could be important in this game. Through his involvement, Benfica will have to divert their attention more towards his flank as well.

CDM: Frenkie de Jong

The Dutchman has been a reliable component of Hansi Flick’s team this season, particularly in the second half of the campaign. With him in the team, Barcelona tends to enjoy a lot more control and composure during games.

CDM: Pedri

A masterful orchestrator of the symphony that Barcelona is always trying to play, nothing works as fluidly as it does when Pedri is on the field. Arguably the most influential player in this team in terms of their style of play, the Spaniard’s presence is simply critical.

RAM: Lamine Yamal

The Barcelona winger is one of world football’s most exciting talents, and for good reason. With the ability to turn any game on its head individually, Lamine Yamal could prove to be a real headache for Benfica to deal with.

CAM: Dani Olmo

With a top performance against Real Sociedad in his last game, Dani Olmo has already showcased the quality and talent that he possesses in order to exploit tight spaces. Against Benfica, that may come in very handy.

LAM: Raphinha

As one of the best performers in the UCL this season, Raphinha has proven his ability to stand out in the big games. Last time around, he was crucial in the victory over Benfica and he will be looking to repeat that again.

Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski

The Polish ace managed to grab a goal in his last game in La Liga, and he will want to carry that momentum back to the Champions League. However, Benfica will look to make it difficult for him to achieve that.

Final Thoughts

FC Barcelona will need a strong collective effort to secure a positive result away from home. With Hansi Flick expected to field a balanced and dynamic lineup, La Blaugrana will be hopeful of taking an advantage back to the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium for the second leg.