Xavi takes charge of his first Champions League knockout stage fixture on Wednesday night as Barcelona travel to Napoli for the first leg of their round of 16 tie.
2023/24 has been a campaign of tumult in Catalonia, although Barca have enjoyed a resurgence without impressing in recent weeks which has left them with an outside shot of contending for their La Liga crown.
However, a deep Champions League run is imperative for the finances, and Barca have a winnable tie against Serie A champions Napoli, who are enduring an even poorer title defence in Italy.
Here’s how Xavi could set his Barcelona side up in Naples on Wednesday night.
GK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen – Ter Stegen’s return has not brought about a defensive improvement and the German is yet to keep a clean sheet since coming back in.
RB: Jules Kounde – The Frenchman has not had a good time of it this term, but a lack of alternatives should means he retains his place.
CB: Inigo Martinez – After replacing Ronald Araujo at half-time on Saturday, the Spanish media believes Martinez will make a rare start in Naples.
CB: Pau Cubarsi – With Araujo’s status in question, the impressive teenager is set to make his first Champions League start on the knockout stage.
LB: Joao Cancelo – Cancelo is an important creative outlet for Xavi down the left flank.
CM: Frenkie de Jong – Questions are beginning to arise regarding De Jong’s future, but there are no doubts regarding his current importance to Xavi in a deeper midfield role.
CM: Ilkay Gundogan – The veteran earned some respite at the weekend by dropping out of the XI. Gundogan was signed to deliver on the big occasion.
CM: Pedri – The silky Spaniard has barely featured during the latter stages of the Champions League. He’ll be looking to produce a statement performance on the grand stage.
RW: Raphinha – Lamine Yamal has been among Barca’s standout performers this calendar year, but he needs a rest. With Raphinha back from injury, the Brazilian could get the nod in midweek.
ST: Robert Lewandowski – It’s a timely return to form for the veteran, who’s endured a tough 2023/24 season. Lewandowski scored twice at the weekend and his first goal was vintage.
LW: Vitor Roque – Roque has enjoyed a bright start to his Barcelona career and is set to make his Champions League debut on Wednesday. With Cancelo advancing, the youngster will operate close to Lewandowski.
