Expect some changes to the FC Barcelona starting lineup when they face Napoli in UEFA Champions League action on Tuesday night. Ronald Araújo should be back in action, having finished serving a suspension, and Robert Lewandowski was rested against Mallorca.
They are both expected to feature from kickoff against Napoli, and the same can be expected for the following foursome: João Cancelo, Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, and ?lkay Gündo?an
FC Barcelona vs Napoli FYIs
Kickoff: Tue. March. 12, 8pm, Olympic Stadium
Competition: UEFA Champions League Round of 16, Leg 2/2
Aggregate: 1-1
Barca Preview Material: Team News Starting XI Prediction
Transatlantic Passage: How the Premier League Redefined Soccer in America: LINK
Result Probability: Barca 50% Extra Time 26% Napoli 24%
The quartet only featured off the bench on Friday night. Having that extra day of rest (from having played on Friday night, instead of the weekend) should serve Xavi’s side well here. He’ll pick a stronger 4-3-3 first 11 in midweek against Napoli than he did against Mallorca.
Here is what we think that looks like.
FC Barcelona Starting XI Prediction vs Napoli (Champions League)
Marc-Andre Ter Stegen; Joao Cancelo, Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez; Andreas Christensen, Ilkay Gundogan, Raphinha; Joao Felix, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski
Paul M. Banks is the Founding Editor of The Sports Bank. He’s also the author of “Transatlantic Passage: How the English Premier League Redefined Soccer in America,” and “No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in the Sports Media Industry.”
He currently contributes to Ravens Wire, part of the USA Today SMG’s NFL Wire Network. His past bylines include the New York Daily News, Sports Illustrated, Chicago Tribune and the Washington Times. You can follow him on Twitter.