Hansi Flick’s choices against Real Sociedad provide hints on his possible Barcelona line-up against Benfica | OneFootball

Although the match could have turned out to be significantly difficult for them, FC Barcelona were able to take the three points from their last game against Real Sociedad with relative ease, even though there were several rotations in their starting line-up.

As Hansi Flick and several Blaugrana players admitted after the game, the red card shown to Elustondo in the first half proved to be a pivotal moment in the match, making things easier for the Catalans.

Furthermore, Barcelona were able to score two goals in the first half, and this allowed Flick to make some changes in the second half while keeping an eye on the upcoming UEFA Champions League Round of 16 game against Benfica.

As Mundo Deportivo has noted, the German coach’s management of this game provides some insights on how he might line up for this upcoming crucial game against the Portuguese side.

Wojciech Szczesny is set to remain the starting goalkeeper for this game as well, but there might be some changes in the defence. As has been the case throughout this season, Kounde will start as the right-back, while Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi will make up the centre of the defence, even though the Basque centre-back was rested against La Real.

Similarly, Alejandro Balde was also rested for this game, and thus, he will return for the next match sharper and fresher.

Pedri has been a mainstay in the midfield this entire season, and this will remain the case in the next match as well, as he was subbed out after an hour of play. Frenkie de Jong, who replaced Pedri in that game, will also start against Benfica in Marc Casado’s stead.

In the attack, the trio of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal is sure to start, and thus, the only doubt remains for the attacking midfield position.

Dani Olmo put in a very good shift at that position against Sociedad, but Flick admitted after the game that he had intended to start Gavi in this position. Thus, it remains to be seen which of these two players will start against Benfica.