Atlético de Madrid vs FC Barcelona line-ups: predicted starting line ups

As with any big match, the main doubts in the days leading up to it revolve around the line-ups that the two sides will field. Diego Pablo Simeone and Hansi Flick will both be looking to make a statement. The Blaugrana aim to maintain their privileged position in LALIGA EA SPORTS, while Los Colchoneros are seeking a morale boost heading into the final stretch of the season.

Which players will the Argentine and the German select? Both Simeone and Flick need their most in-form players to face this demanding clash, in which part of their ambitions will be at stake.

Possible Atlético de Madrid line-up

Diego Pablo Simeone comes into the match with two key absences in midfield. Marcos Llorente, one of his untouchables, and Johnny Cardoso, another important presence in the middle of the park, will be missing. On the other hand, Oblak, Pubill and Pablo Barrios could return.

In this scenario, Simeone could opt for Oblak in goal (or Musso, after his strong performances), with Pubill and Hancko as centre-backs and Nahuel Molina and Ruggeri at full-back. In midfield, Koke seems untouchable, while Mendoza and Barrios would compete for the second spot. Giuliano and Lookman would occupy the wings. Up front, Julián Álvarez will be the main reference, with either Sørloth or Griezmann alongside him. The Frenchman has the edge given his excellent form.

Possible FC Barcelona line-up

FC Barcelona, meanwhile, are aiming to take another crucial step towards retaining the LALIGA EA SPORTS title, while also keeping an eye on the Champions League quarter-finals. Hansi Flick will definitely be without Raphinha (a key player) and Christensen, as well as several other doubtful players, with more focus on the European competition than the league clash.

As things stand, Flick’s main doubt lies in defence, where the usual full-backs (Koundé and Balde) are unlikely to be available. Eric García, the most-used outfield player by the German coach, is also a doubt. With this in mind, he could line up Joan García in goal, with Eric García (or Araújo), Cubarsí, Gerard Martín and Cancelo in defence.

In midfield, De Jong is not expected to return in time, which gives Bernal the nod in the holding role, with Pedri and Fermín (or Olmo) as interiors. In attack, Lamine Yamal is certain to start, while Lewandowski and Ferran will compete to lead the line. On the left wing, the options to replace Raphinha are Rashford and Olmo, with the Englishman currently having the edge.