“How will Barcelona line up against Crvena Zvezda in a crucial Champions League away match?”

Barcelona heads to Serbia to face Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) in a crucial Champions League clash, aiming for a third consecutive win in the League Phase. Playing at the historic Marakana Stadium, Hansi Flick’s squad is determined to secure a top-eight spot, which would guarantee direct qualification to the Round of 16.

Defense
After making slight adjustments in their derby victory over Espanyol, Flick is expected to rotate again to keep players fresh ahead of a major La Liga matchup with Real Sociedad. Iñaki Peña will likely start in goal, while Jules Kounde, rested over the weekend, should return at full-back. Alejandro Balde is set for a reduced role, with Gerard Martín expected to step in at left-back. Central defenders Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez remain essential to the lineup and are expected to start.

Midfield
The midfield could see the return of Marc Casadó, whose presence was missed during the second half against Espanyol. He’ll likely partner with Frenkie de Jong, who is ready for his first start post-injury. With Pedri potentially resting, Dani Olmo is expected to fill in after a standout performance over the weekend.

Attack
Up front, Barcelona’s primary trio—Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha—should lead the attack, aiming to establish an early advantage. Ansu Fati may come in for either Yamal or Raphinha in the later stages to give them some rest.

Projected XI: Peña; Kounde, Cubarsí, Iñigo, Martín; Casadó, De Jong, Olmo; Yamal, Lewandowski, Raphinha (4-3-3)

How do you think Barcelona should line up? Share your thoughts, predictions, and lineup ideas in the comments below!