It is only the second line-up of the season, but the eleven chosen by Xavi Hernández will be talked about. For the first time in a long time none of the Barça captains will start. No sacred cow will start against Real Sociedad in Anoeta in the match corresponding to the second day of the League.
The only forced loss is that of Sergio Busquets, expelled last week against Rayo Vallecano. The rest (Gerard Piqué, Jordi Alba and Sergi Roberto) do not play by technical decision. The most notable absence is that of Jordi Alba, the most entrenched in the eleven and without competition for a long time. On this occasion, the Terrassa coach has opted for Alejandro Balde in the left-handed lane and a defense of three.
Ronald Araújo forms the rear along with Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen. Xavi does not have Sergiño Dest and the other option that he currently has on the right side is Sergi Roberto, but no footballer will occupy that position. Yes, Ousmane Dembélé will be in the right lane.
The loss of Busquets in midfield will be replaced by Xavi with Frenkie de Jong. All eyes will be on the Dutchman, not only because of the rumors throughout the summer that he was out of the Catalan club, but also because he will play as a midfielder. Gavi and Pedri will accompany him.
Above, the novelty is Ferran Torres, with very little prominence in preseason due to injury. Robert Lewandowski, on his birthday, will try to make his debut as a Blaugrana scorer in an official match.
Real Sociedad: Remiro; Elustondo, Zubeldia, Le Normand, Aihen; Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Silva, Brais Méndez; Kubo and Isak.
Barcelona: Ter Stegen; Araujo, Christensen, Eric Garcia, Balde; Of Jong, Pedri, Gavi; Dembele, Ferran Torres and Lewandowski.
