BARCA UNIVERSAL
Barcelona face yet another uphill task in La Liga this weekend as they look to take on Real Sociedad in gameweek 12. The Catalans have skunked to fourth place in the league following the defeat against Real Madrid, and are currently four points behind them.
Xavi has made a fair few changes to the team that took on Madrid last weekend. First and foremost, Robert Lewandowski is back in the starting lineup, and will look to add to his five goals in La Liga.
The Spanish coach has opted for the same formation as against Madrid, though, playing in a 3-5-2. As such, Felix gets the nod to start in his preferred second striker role alongside the Pole.
No changes midfield, though, as Oriol Romeu continues on the bench, while Ilkay Gundogan takes his place as the defensive midfielder. Gavi retains his spot, as well, while Fermin Lopez has been given the nod to start for his fifth-ever senior start.
Alejandro Balde stays as Xavi’s pick at left wing-back despite contrary reports stating otherwise, while Joao Cancelo will provide width from the right side.
Meanwhile, Andreas Christensen has been rested after successive starts in central defence. Ronald Araujo and Inigo Martinez continue in that role and are joined by Jules Kounde who missed the last few weeks due to injury.
This trident will screen Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal.
Confirmed Barça XI: ter Stegen; Kounde, Araujo, Inigo; Cancelo, Gavi, Gundogan, Fermin, Balde; Felix, Lewandowski
