FC Barcelona face off against Albacete in a little over an hour in the quarterfinals of the 2025/26 Copa del Rey.Ahead of kickoff against the La Liga 2 side, who have already knocked out the likes of ...
FC Barcelona face off against Albacete in a little over an hour in the quarterfinals of the 2025/26 Copa del Rey.
Ahead of kickoff against the La Liga 2 side, who have already knocked out the likes of Celta Vigo and Real Madrid from the tournament, Hansi Flick has announced the Barcelona starting lineup that will take the field at Estadio Carlos Belmonte.
There are some rotations, but it is still a very strong Barça XI that will be taking the field.
One of the big changes sees Ronald Araujo start at the heart of the defence. This will be his first start since he returned from a mental health break. The Barcelona captain partners with Eric Garcia, with Pau Cubarsi getting a rest.
Meanwhile, Joao Cancelo gets the nod at right-back, ahead of Jules Kounde, while Gerard Martin starts at left-back in place of Alejandro Balde.
There is a start in midfield for young midfielder Marc Bernal, who has been gaining rhythm in recent weeks and has seen his involvement gradually increase.
The teenager partners with Frenkie de Jong in the centre of the park, with Dani Olmo operating as the No. 10.
Up top, Robert Lewandowski replaces Ferran Torres as the No. 9, while Marcus Rashford steps into the lineup to replace the injured Raphinha. Lamine Yamal retains his place on the right flank against Albacete.
Category: General Sports
