After securing a 3-1 victory over Napoli in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16, Barcelona will now face Atletico Madrid this evening at the Wanda Metropolitano for matchday 29 of La Liga.
A victory here would mean Barcelona head into the final international break of the season on a high note, even if La Liga currently appears out of their reach.
However, with Joao Cancelo injured, Xavi has opted to use Hector Fort at left-back tonight, while Jules Kounde continues at right-back. Ronald Araujo and Pau Cubarsi were also given permission to keep their places in central defense.
This four-man defender will have the task of filtering Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal.
There is a major and unexpected change in midfield, with Fermin Lopez being benched in favor of Sergi Roberto. Ilkay Gundogan and Andreas Christensen, however, remain unchanged in midfield, the latter being the starting midfielder.
Robert Lewandowski was given the license to start as a striker, while Lamine Yamal was rested in favor of Raphinha on the right wing.
The big inclusion is Joao Felix, who takes the lead from the left. Xavi will be counting on the Portuguese, hoping he will deliver once again against Atletico Madrid with a chip on his shoulder.
🚨BARCA XI🚨#AtletiBarça pic.twitter.com/4YTb8WuW2Y
– FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 17, 2024
Confirmed XI: ter Roasting; Koundé, Araujo, Cubarsi, Fort; Robert, Christensen, Gundogan; Leaf, Lewandowski, Felix