Match Preview : FC Barcelona vs Osasuna

It’s Wednesday, and Barcelona will play Osasuna at the Olimpic stadium. It should be an interesting game with goals and many events. However, it’s fair to say that the most interesting thing tonight would be how the fans will receive Xavi, after his announcement after the loss on Sunday.

I believe the fans should give a warm welcome to Xavi, a legend of the club that did the best that he could. Although things don’t go our way this season, it’s important to remember how Xavi received the team, and what he achieved in two years. Therefore, the game vs Osasuna would be a great chance for the fans to thank Xavi and show him support for the next few months of this season. And who knows – Maybe we will have a good run now that Xavi doesn’t have this pressure anymore.

A look at our opponent

Osasuna finished last season at the 7^th place of the the table, but the will face Barcelona sitting at the 12^th spot. It’s fair to say that Osasuna is not doing so well this season, comparing to last season. But they will still be a tough team to beat.

As we all remember, 20 days ago, Barcelona met Osasuna at the Semi finals of the Supercopa. Barcelona wont he match 2-0, with Roberto Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scoring the goals. In their last game, Osasuna finished the match vs Sevilla in a 1-1 draw.

Naturally, Barcelona will have to keep a close eye on Ante Budimir. The Croatian striker is always a challenge for our defense. However, the absence of Chimy Avila is one less thing to worry about tonight.

Predicted lineup

Looks like there are very few things to debate about the starting lineup. With a list of injuries that keeps growing, and with the limit of 3 non-first team players on the field – the lineup kinda writes itself. However, we might see a surprise there.

Unfortunately, Alejandro Balde is out for the season. To him you can add Sergi Roberto, Inigo Martinez and Christensen, who will probably be rested tonight. Therefore, our defense will have Kounde, Araujo and probably Cancelo from the first minute. Then, Xavi will have to decide if he wants to start with either Hector Fort or Pau Cubarsi. 

Our midfield looks set – Gundogan, Pedri and Frenkie will probably start. The only surprise that might happen tonight, is the use of Fermin as a 4^th midfielder. The recently registered midfielder might get more minutes tonight.

On our attack, I can see Ferran, Lamine and Lewandowski start. With Felix out for the next few weeks, these are the obvious choices. However, Fermin and a 4^th midfielder might change that. Furthermore, Vitor Roque and Marc Guiu will try to fight for their place in the starting lineup as well.

My starting lineup

Inaki Pena

Kounde – Araujo – Cubarsi – Cancelo

Gundo – Frenkie – Pedri

Marco