Xavi Hernández has found his typical team. It is what it seems because against Atlético de Madrid he once again repeats the eleven with which he beat Porto. It is the line-up that led them to advance to the round of 16 of the Champions League and now the coach trusts that it will serve him well in a duel of maximum tension to follow in the wake of Real Madrid and Girona in the fight for the League.
Five days after the victory over the Portuguese team in Montjuïc, the same eleven protagonists will take to the pitch to face Simeone's Atlético. Of course, it is not the gala eleven because Gavi, injured for a long time, and Ter Stegen are missing in goal. The German is still out with lower back pain. His place between the sticks is occupied by Iñaki Peña for the third consecutive game.
In defense, Xavi insists with three center backs, with Koundé moved to the right. Iñigo Martínez has established himself in the center of the defense as a left-footed centre-back, relegating Christensen to the bench. While João Cancelo has settled on the left wing after his great game against Porto.
The midfield maintains the triangle of the three most creative footballers that Barcelona has left, with the recovery of Frenkie de Jong - captain again -, surrounded by Pedri and Gündogan. The German has played all 20 games this campaign.
There was also no doubt that in attack João Félix would face his former teammates. The Portuguese has focused the attention of the previous round and now must claim his prominence with the ball. Next to him will be Lewandowski and Raphinha. While Lamine Yamal, who was already a substitute in the classic, awaits his moment on the bench. This means that Barça is playing again without Catalans at the start.
