Barcelona Host Real Betis Amid Lineup Shake-Up Ahead of Champions League Clash
Barcelona welcome Real Betis to the Montjuïc Stadium tonight in Matchday 30 of La Liga, aiming to grab a crucial three points before turning their attention to their upcoming Champions League showdown with Borussia Dortmund.
The Catalan giants currently sit atop the La Liga standings with 66 points, holding a slim 3-point lead over Real Madrid and a 7-point cushion over third-placed Atlético Madrid.
However, ahead of tonight’s match, head coach Hansi Flick has reportedly made a surprising call that could stir some internal tension. According to El Nacional, Flick plans to bench young star Lamine Yamal in favor of Ferran Torres.
The move is reportedly disciplinary, following Yamal’s visible frustration after being substituted in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atlético Madrid. While Yamal has been a key figure in recent weeks, it appears Flick wants to send a message about team discipline.
Projected Barcelona Starting XI vs Real Betis:
- Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczęsny
- Defense: Jules Koundé, Ronald Araújo, Pau Kobarci, Alejandro Balde
- Midfield: Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Fermín López
- Attack: Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres, Raphinha
With the Champions League clash just days away, Flick’s lineup choices suggest both rotation and reinforcement of discipline are on his mind. All eyes will be on how this decision impacts both the result tonight and the team’s momentum heading into Europe.
