Barcelona has been cautioned against complacency following the elimination of Real Madrid by Albacete in the Copa del Rey Round of 16. The Blaugrana are set to face Racing Santander at El Sardinero (21:00 CEST KO), a team currently leading the Segunda and displaying impressive form, making them, on paper, a more challenging opponent than Alaves.
Racing coach Jose Alberto suggested that this added pressure could complicate matters for his squad, especially if Hansi Flick opts for heavy rotation. Barcelona will be without Andreas Christensen and Gavi due to injuries; however, Ronald Araujo and newest signing Joao Cancelo are included in the squad. Additionally, Raphinha, nursing a hamstring injury, may be rested. Alberto is also missing forward Asier Villalibre due to injury issues.
Barcelona Expected to Rotate Forward Line and Midfield
MD predicts that out of the lineup that faced Real Madrid, only Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, and Pedri will likely start the match. A noteworthy inclusion could be a rare left-back start for Gerard Martin, with Marc Casado set for his second appearance of the season on the right flank. Marc Bernal and Roony Bardghji are also expected to earn some playing time.
Youngster Tommy Marques has made the squad as well. Sport reports that Pedri may be rested, with Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde taking over for Cubarsi and the Canary Islander.
Image via Sport.
Racing Santander’s Focus
Currently leading the Segunda with 38 points, Racing Santander is level with Las Palmas in second place, maintaining just a four-point lead over the teams in fifth and sixth. Several Segunda teams, including Albacete and Deportivo La Coruna, chose to rotate their squads against Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid earlier in the round, leaving the possibility open that Alberto might follow suit. Notably, he sent a strong lineup against Villarreal in the previous round, where they secured a 2-1 victory.