FC Barcelona will be led by Gavi in midfield against Sevilla.
FC Barcelona will make no fewer than eight line up changes when they host Sevilla for a La Liga clash at the Montjuic Stadium on Friday.
Head coach Xavi Hernandez had promised rotations at the start of the week ahead of Tuesday’s disappointing 2-2 away draw at Mallorca, and has more than kept his word.
In summary, only Marc-Andre Ter Stegen, Oriol Romeu and a Gavi who has proven himself to be a technical beast in a new role during Pedri’s absence keep their roles from last time out – though a couple of other starters in Son Moix have managed to keep their places in the starting XI albeit in new positions.
Keeping 27 of them in all competitions last season, Ter Stegen seeks his first clean sheet in three matches after conceding four goals in the past 180 minutes.
Trying to help him in this endeavour will be Marcos Alonso at left back as Andreas Christensen and Jules Kounde form a central partnership.
With Joao Cancelo given a rest, Ronald Araujo who was a center back against Mallorca runs out at right back.
As implied, Oriol Romeu is the pivot in midfield as Gavi plays a more advanced role. With Frenkie de Jong injured, Gavi is joined by captain Sergio Roberto and not Ilkay Gundogan on this occasion.
Up top, Xavi manages to find space for both Raphinha and Lamine Yamal with one on the left and the other manning the right flank.
Wedged between them, Robert Lewandowski reclaims his striker berth with Ferran Torres failing to impress there midweek.
From Sevilla, Xavi expects a “rocky opponent” which is “physically strong” and has had a clear idea of how to play direct, vertical football since Jose Luis Mendilibar took over.
“We play at home and we need the fans and to get back to the good feelings in terms of playing and winning,” he added on Thursday.
With a victory, Barca can return to the top of La Liga ahead of the other main candidates in the title race thus far, Girona and Real Madrid, facing off late Saturday afternoon.
FC Barcelona Starting XI Vs. Sevilla: Ter Stegen; Alonso, Christensen, Kounde, Araujo; Romeu, Gavi, Roberto; Raphinha, Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal
