Hansi Flick is preparing to shuffle Barcelona's lineup for Sunday's La Liga clash at Valencia's Mestalla stadium, with his attention already turning toward Wednesday's Champions League opener against Feyenoord. The German tactician faces a balancing act between maintaining domestic momentum and preserving key players for European competition.
Spanish outlet AS reports that Rodri is poised to make his maiden La Liga start since joining from Manchester City this summer. The midfielder, who has impressed in limited appearances, figures to partner Pedri in Barcelona's central midfield. Fermín López is also expected to return to the starting eleven, displacing Dani Olmo in what signals Flick's intent to rest certain players ahead of the Feyenoord fixture.
Yamal's Status Remains Uncertain
The biggest question mark surrounds young talent Lamine Yamal, who missed Saturday's collective training session due to a minor knock. Flick will conduct a final assessment before confirming whether the winger features at Mestalla. If Yamal is sidelined, German winger Karim Adeyemi stands ready to step in and provide attacking width.
Raphinha appears certain to start in attack and will wear the captain's armband in an official capacity for the first time following Friday's captaincy vote. Anthony Gordon continues his promising form on the left flank. Defensively, Gerard Martín will slot in at left centre-back while Eric García returns on the opposite flank—though García will miss the Champions League fixture through suspension.
Marc Casadó could feature in his fourth consecutive start, a streak matched only by goalkeeper Joan García. This rotation strategy allows Flick to manage his squad's workload while testing depth ahead of a grueling European campaign. Barcelona sit atop La Liga with eyes on both domestic dominance and continental success this season.
