Flick faces one major dilemma as Barcelona lineup for Benfica clash takes shape | OneFootball

The match script against Real Sociedad, which saw an early sending-off and two goals in the first half, allowed Hansi Flick to focus on the upcoming UEFA Champions League clash against Benfica.

Having already made some decisions with the European fixture in mind, the German coach executed strategic substitutions with an eye on the starting eleven for the match in Portugal.

Lineup taking shape

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana lineup for Wednesday’s clash against Benfica is starting to take shape, with almost the entirety of the starting XI now locked in.

With Wojciech Szczesny guaranteed to start in goal, the defensive line is beginning to solidify. Jules Kounde appears irreplaceable at right-back, particularly in the European competition.

Meanwhile, the central defence is expected to feature Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez. The academy product was rested five matches ago and was substituted in the 59th minute vs Sociedad for Eric Garcia. Martinez, on the other hand, did not play at all.

Gavi or Olmo against Benfica? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Similarly, Balde was also left out but is set to return to the left-back position. Gerard Martin covered the role effectively but will go back to the bench, as will Araujo, who finished the match suffering from cramps.

In midfield, Pedri is untouchable. Against Real Sociedad, he played for an hour before being replaced by Frenkie de Jong, who is expected to start in place of Marc Casado, who completed the entire match.

One position uncertain

With the attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha locked in, the only remaining doubt is whether Dani Olmo will feature as the attacking midfielder after his impressive display or make way for Gavi.

It must be noted that the Spaniard was not initially meant to start against Sociedad, as Flick had intended for Gavi to play, but the young midfielder was benched due to illness.

Gavi was set to come on in the second half, but Araujo’s cramping forced Flick to opt for Hector Fort instead. It is now up to Flick to choose between the two Spanish midfielders for the No. 10 role against Benfica.