"Barcelona's win over Eintracht Frankfurt midweek was anything but straightforward, especially with the Catalans needing a Jules Kounde brace to get them over the line. Three games now remain before they disperse for the winter break, and the first of them is against Osasuna at home. Alessio Lisci's men have not had a season to remember so far and languish in 15th place, just three points ahead of the relegation zone."
"Frenkie de Jong was briefly out of Barcelona's squad for some personal matters and returned to the dynamics only for the past two games. On both occasions, he started on the bench. Hansi Flick, meanwhile, placed his faith in the combination of Pedri and Eric Garcia to come good in the double-pivot, and the duo did well to control the middle of the park."
"The team are yet to play three games this year before dispersing for the break, and Flick sees it to be crucial to balance out players' minutes. The Dutchman's return, hence, is close to guaranteed, and he will look to restore his synergy with Pedri. Other minor rotations are expected to feature, with there being a strong chance of Marcus Rashford or Roony Bardghji featuring and Robert Lewandowski being rested. The big change, however, is undoubtedly that of De Jong's return."
Barcelona required a Jules Kounde brace to secure a midweek win over Eintracht Frankfurt and now face Osasuna in the first of three pre-winter-break fixtures. Osasuna sit 15th, three points clear of the relegation zone, and arrive unbeaten in three with two consecutive wins. Frenkie de Jong returned to the squad after personal matters but started on the bench; Hansi Flick relied on a Pedri–Eric Garcia double-pivot that controlled midfield. De Jong is likely to start with Pedri while Garcia reverts to defense. Minor rotations are expected, possibly involving Marcus Rashford or Roony Bardghji, and Robert Lewandowski may be rested. Joan Garcia returned from a long layoff and has been solid as the starting goalkeeper.
Read at Barca Universal
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