Barcelona predicted lineup vs Getafe - La Liga
- Barcelona get their title defence underway away from home
- Xavi's side looking to defend their title but also do well in the Champions League
- Robert Lewandowski tasked with leading the line and firing Barcelona to glory
By Euan Burns
As the old adage goes, it is easier to win a title than defend it. Xavi did extremely well to deliver the La Liga title for his Barcelona team in the 2022/23 season, but things are going to get harder now.
They must continue to get the better of Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, while also getting much further in the Champions League. Another group-stage exit will not be tolerated, so good early La Liga form will be important to build confidence before those Champions League matches get underway.
They will be starting the season away at Getafe on Sunday night, so here is the team that Xavi may choose to get off to the perfect start.
Barcelona predicted lineup vs Getafe (4-3-3)
GK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen - One of the best goalkeepers in the world, this is a very solid position in the Barcelona team where no shock selections are expected in the coming years.
RB: Ronald Araujo - Becoming one of the best defenders in the world, Ronald Araujo reached a new level of importance for Barcelona last season and could be a fixture at the back for a long time to come.
CB: Jules Kounde - He may not have quite hit the ground running at Barcelona last season but Kounde is becoming an important player for Xavi and should get a lot of minutes this season.
CB: Eric Garcia - Much like Kounde, Eric Garcia is not an undroppable part of this Barcelona defence but he should get the start during the opening game of the season.
LB: Alejandro Balde - The rise of Alejandro Balde has been a blessing for Barcelona as he has become the Jordi Alba replacement without spending money on transfer fees. Marcos Alonso will be his challenger this season.
CM: Frenkie de Jong - After the drama of the 2022 summer transfer window, Frenkie de Jong will have enjoyed being largely out of the headlines and he will continue to be a great player for Barcelona.
CM: Gavi - An undroppable player, Gavi is becoming a talisman for Barcelona and his energy in the midfield will be key to any success they enjoy this season.
CM: Pedri - Much like Gavi, Pedri is a player that Barcelona want to have in the team for the rest of his career. He will be vital all season long.
RW: Raphinha - A few players could be given this role on the opening day and Ansu Fati is another option. but Xavi likes Raphinha and he'll get the first chance to impress.
ST: Robert Lewandowski - The man who needs no introduction, Robert Lewandowski will continue to score goals for Barcelona.
LW: Ansu Fati - Looked likely to be on the transfer chopping block this summer before playing his way back into Xavi's plans.