FC Barcelona – Bayern Munich: probable line-ups
As FC Barcelona hosts Bayern Munich for this clash on Matchday 3 of the Champions League, here’s what Hansi Flick and Vincent Kompany have in store.
It’s a classic of European football taking place tonight in Montjuïc. While it’s true that in recent years this matchup has often favored the Bavarians, we are witnessing a very different FC Barcelona this season. Hansi Flick has completely revolutionized this team, which is nothing like the one from previous seasons. Similarly, Vincent Kompany, who has also just arrived on the sidelines, is beginning to win people over in Germany, despite initial skepticism.
Both teams are arriving with quite similar dynamics. Both Bayern and Barça are at the top of their respective leagues, although the Catalans have played three more matches, and they have the same record in the Champions League: one win and one loss. It’s an uncertain duel, promising excitement, and the eventual loser will find themselves in a complicated situation regarding qualification.
For this clash, Hansi Flick will go with the classic setup. Iñaki Peña will be in goal, protected by the center-back pairing of Cubarsi and Martinez, which has been performing quite well. The flanks will be occupied by Jules Koundé and Alejandro Baldé. In midfield, we’ll see Marc Casado, Fermin Lopez, and Pedri, while Dani Olmo, returning from injury, will start on the bench. Up front, the trio of Raphinha, Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal will be tasked with troubling the Bayern defense.
On the other side, Vincent Kompany is also expected to rely on his usual lineup. Neuer will be in goal, with a defensive quartet consisting of Guerreiro, Upamecano, Kim Min-Jae, and Davies. The midfield battle promises to be fierce, with the Bavarians counting on Kimmich and Palinha in a double pivot. In front of them, there will be a trio of Olise, Musiala, and Gnabry, while the inevitable Harry Kane will be the team’s offensive reference.
