Barcelona’s team is out for this evening’s Copa del Rey game against Unionistas de Salamanca, and as expected, Xavi has selected a very strong side.
Defeat in the Spanish Super Cup has put his position under threat for perhaps the first time, and a morale boosting win tonight – with some slick football – is important.
There’s still room for youth in the team though – Marc Guiu is selected to make his first Barcelona start up front, meaning Brazilian import Vitor Roque has to wait on the bench for his chance.
🚨 BARÇA XI 🚨#UnionistasBarça pic.twitter.com/OAkPYr4j4p
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 18, 2024
Another recent La Masia graduate, Fermin Lopez, gets his latest start in midfield.
This side looks to have a nice balance of youth and experience, and should be able to make short work of their lower league opposition while also rewarding some academy players with a chance to impress.
There are plenty of big guns on the bench, although Xavi will be hoping to avoid using them.