Ferran Torres during the match between FC Barcelona and Cadiz CF at Camp Nou on April 18, 2022 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Barcelona face Cadiz before tough test against Bayern Munich in UCL
Riding high following the 5-1 win in the Champions League against Viktoria Plzen, Barcelona now turn their attention back to LaLiga as they travel to take on Cadiz.
While the Catalans are focused on the task at hand, there’s no doubt they’re also thinking ahead to their Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.
With that in mind, Xavi is likely to rotate a couple players to ensure they arrive fresh for the game with the German giants.
One of the players who won’t feature is Sergi Roberto. The right-back/midfielder was subbed off during the Viktoria Plzen match as a precaution after picking up a knock. He wasn’t included in the squad list to face Cadiz.
Another player who could see some rest is Pedri.
“He’s an option to be given a break, we’ll decide tomorrow, he’s one who has played a lot,” Xavi said. “I see him very well, participative, joyful, he’s at an extraordinary level.”
This means we could see the debuts of Hector Bellerin and Marcos Alonso should Xavi also want to rest Alejandro Balde. The youngster has impressed Xavi and, barring a change in system, is another player who is likely to start against Bayern.
All that being said, Barcelona cannot afford to overlook their opponent this weekend. Cadiz has been a thorn in their side. Last season, Cadiz took points in both fixtures, holding Barcelona to only one goal.
Fortunately for Xavi’s side, they are in fantastic form, having scored at least three goals in their last four matches in all competitions. Robert Lewandowski’s arrival has a lot to do with it as the Polish striker has been the answer to Barcelona’s prayers.
With the amount of quality Xavi has at his disposal, he has a variety of options for his starting 11.
In a matter of days, Barcelona have the opportunity to right the ship. On Saturday, it’s Cadiz. On Tuesday, it could be Bayern Munich. They need all the momentum they can get ahead of the Champions League. A win against the aforementioned Cadiz is a must.
Possible starting XI:
Ter Stegen
Bellerin, Araujo, Kounde, Balde
Gavi, Busquets, Frenkie de Jong
Dembele, Lewandowski, Raphinha
