After losing in the opening match of the group stage, Barcelona need to do everything to get a good result away against Benfica. The first step in that direction would be picking the right starting line-up.
Here are some of Ronald Koeman's options.
Option 1
Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen - Mingueza, Pique, Araujo, Dest - Busquets, F. de Jong, Gavi - Coutinho, L. de Jong, Memphis.
This starting eleven is more or less the same as in the previous game. The only changes are Ronald Araujo playing from the start after getting his well-deserved rest, and Frenkie de Jong replacing Nico Gonzalez.
Since Koeman has said that the plan on Ansu Fati is to increase his playing time little by little, it's practically ruled out that the 18-year-old plays from the start. Thus, the front trio could stay the same.
Pedri has only returned from injury so he's unlikely to play from the start as well.
Option 2
Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen - Mingueza, Garcia, Araujo, Dest - Busquets, F. de Jong, Roberto - Demir, L. de Jong, Memphis.
Gerad Pique, if he's not fresh enough, might be dropped to the bench in favour of Eric Garcia.
In midfield, Sergi Roberto could make his return in case the coach wants to add more experience to the starting line-up.
Finally, Yusuf Demir could start ahead of Philippe Coutinho. The Brazilian looked poor on the right, was often out of position and contributed with little to our game. Thus, having an actual right winger on the pitch might be preferable.
Option 3
Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen - Mingueza, Pique, Araujo, Dest - Busquets, F. de Jong, Gavi - Roberto, L. de Jong, Memphis.
In case Koeman isn't satisfied with what Coutinho and Demir have shown so far, he could try to use Roberto on the right wing. We've already seen him do that in the second half of the Cadiz game.
What option do you like best and why? Tell us in the comments below!
