After securing direct qualification for the Champions League round of 16, FC Barcelona turn their attention back to La Liga with a demanding away trip to Elche, coached by Eder Sarabia. Despite Elche’s recent dip in form, Hansi Flick is expected to field a strong lineup, with two key changes likely in the starting XI.
Elche began the season strongly but have taken only two points from their last four league matches. Defeats against Levante and Villarreal, draws with Valencia and Sevilla, and elimination from the Copa del Rey by Real Betis have slowed their momentum. Still, Sarabia’s side remain very solid at home, where they have lost just once in eleven matches. Only Villarreal have managed to beat them on their own ground, while Elche even held Real Madrid to a draw.
With Barcelona holding only a one-point lead over Real Madrid in La Liga, Flick is not expected to rotate heavily, even with a Copa del Rey quarter-final against Albacete coming up on Tuesday. The squad situation is favorable, with only Pedri, Gavi and Andreas Christensen unavailable.
De Jong Back in the XI
According to Sport journalist Ferran Correas, one of the changes will be the return of Frenkie de Jong to the starting lineup after serving his suspension in the Champions League match against Copenhagen. Against an Elche side that likes to dominate possession, De Jong’s presence should help Barcelona control the midfield alongside Fermín López and Dani Olmo.
De Jong’s inclusion is also expected to push Eric García back into central defense next to Pau Cubarsí, allowing Gerard Martín to rest.
Ferran Torres Could Replace Lewandowski
Another possible change could come in attack. Robert Lewandowski has started three matches in a row and played 82 minutes against Copenhagen, so Flick may choose to rest him. Ferran Torres, who recently returned from a minor muscle issue and featured in the Champions League, is a strong candidate to start as the central striker.
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are expected to keep their places on the wings.
Barcelona know that despite Elche’s recent struggles, this will be a difficult test. With the title race tight, Flick is set to rely on his strongest available options to secure another crucial league win.
