Barcelona host Athletic Club on Saturday in what’ll be a landmark day for the club, returning to play a match at Camp Nou for the first time in 909 days.
Hansi Flick’s side are back at their real home following a 4–2 victory over Celta Vigo last time out. Although Barcelona’s attack is back to looking formidable again, recent performances have exposed major defensive issues the German surely made an effort to fix during the international break.
Regardless of Athletic Club’s unimpressive start this term, Ernesto Valverde’s side have a number of talented players that could very well spoil Barça’s celebratory day.
But Flick’s team will also be boosted by the return of goalkeeper Joan García, who will start in goal after almost two months out injured. Raphinha, who has missed Barça’s last nine games too, is expected to make a cameo off the bench as well.
Still, the absence of Pedri due to injury and Frenkie de Jong’s suspension have depleted the Blaugrana midfield. Flick will have to get creative to ensure his team can cope without their starting double-pivot on Saturday afternoon.
Here’s how Barcelona could line up in their first match at the Camp Nou since the 2022–23 season finale.
