Eric Garcia in midfield as Xavi rotates for Elche vs Barcelona

By Feargal Brennan - 1 April 2023, 19:17

Xavi has opted for five changes to his starting line up for Barcelona’s La Liga clash with Elche.

Elche host Barcelona in a clash between the top and bottom sides in the Spanish top flight, with the visitors looking to extend their title advantage to 15 points overnight, via a win.

Injuries have impacted Xavi’s options for the clash with experience the calling card in defence as Marcos Alonso and Jordi Alba are both drafted into the starting XI.

🚨 BARÇA XI 🚨#ElcheBarça pic.twitter.com/lv3pzaprjX

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 1, 2023

The big news for the away side is Xavi playing Eric Garcia in a central midfield role, despite the Spanish international only featuring in a bit part role this season.

Xavi has backed the former Manchester City defender to thrive in his new position after confirming it has been a long term consideration at the club.

There are also changes in attack, with the fit again Ansu Fati picked to start, alongside the returning Ferran Torres.