RESOLVING THE LEDGER
This is one outlet's own report from Yahoo Sports — the article as it was filed. Other outlets are covering the same event; open the full story to compare every source side by side.
See the full story · 1 sources
FC Barcelona 's La Liga title defense couldn't have started much better, with Hansi Flick's side smashing Elche 5-0 in the opening match of the season.
Now, Flick has a number of choices to make about his lineup for the home opener, a Thursday date with Athletic Club.
The German manager generally has more options than he did just a few days ago. Summer signing Rodri will feature, Flick said in his pre-match news conference, though it's not clear if the World Cup Golden Ball winner will start or come off the bench.
Another World Cup hero, for Spain center back Pau Cubarsi, is also pushing for his first minutes of the season, but the center-back pairing of Andreas Christensen and Gerard Martin could repeat after keeping a clean sheet in the opener.
Up front, there are likely to be modifications. Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi both will hope to get the nod on the left wing, though Fermin Lopez should keep his place after a double in the opener, and Raphinha also is likely to keep his place after his two goals and assist on the opening day.
Gavi, who exited the Elche win at halftime because of a knock, didn't train this week and is unlikely to play a part.
Here's the starting XI for Barcelona in the first game of what the club hopes is a third title defense:
FC Barcelona projected starting lineup vs Athletic Club
Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia
Defenders: Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martin, Xavi Espart
Central Midfielders: Marc Bernal, Pedri
Wingers and attacking midfielder: Lamine Yamal, Fermín López, Anthony Gordon
Forward : Raphina
When is Barcelona vs. Athletic Club?
When: Thursday, Aug. 27
Where: Camp Nou (Barcelona, Spain)
Time: 3 p.m. ET
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: FC Barcelona starting lineup: Will Rodri debut in the XI vs. Athletic?
AIPROPX is an independent multi-source news index — we track, compare, and connect coverage from across the web into one place you won't find anywhere else.