Barcelona predicted lineup vs Napoli - Champions League
- Xavi takes charge of first Champions League knockout stage fixture
- Results have picked up for Barcelona in recent weeks
- Joao Felix could return to matchday squad
Xavi takes charge of his first Champions League knockout stage fixture on Wednesday night as Barcelona travel to Napoli for the first leg of their round of 16 tie.
2023/24 has been a campaign of tumult in Catalonia, although Barca have enjoyed a resurgence without impressing in recent weeks which has left them with an outside shot of contending for their La Liga crown.
However, a deep Champions League run is imperative for the finances, and Barca have a winnable tie against Serie A champions Napoli, who are enduring an even poorer title defence in Italy.
Here's how Xavi could set his Barcelona side up in Naples on Wednesday night.
Barcelona predicted lineup vs Napoli (4-3-3)
GK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen - Ter Stegen's return has not brought about a defensive improvement and the German is yet to keep a clean sheet since coming back in.
RB: Jules Kounde - The Frenchman has not had a good time of it this term, but a lack of alternatives should means he retains his place.
CB: Inigo Martinez - After replacing Ronald Araujo at half-time on Saturday, the Spanish media believes Martinez will make a rare start in Naples.
CB: Pau Cubarsi - With Araujo's status in question, the impressive teenager is set to make his first Champions League start on the knockout stage.
LB: Joao Cancelo - Cancelo is an important creative outlet for Xavi down the left flank.
CM: Frenkie de Jong - Questions are beginning to arise regarding De Jong's future, but there are no doubts regarding his current importance to Xavi in a deeper midfield role.
CM: Ilkay Gundogan - The veteran earned some respite at the weekend by dropping out of the XI. Gundogan was signed to deliver on the big occasion.
CM: Pedri - The silky Spaniard has barely featured during the latter stages of the Champions League. He'll be looking to produce a statement performance on the grand stage.
RW: Raphinha - Lamine Yamal has been among Barca's standout performers this calendar year, but he needs a rest. With Raphinha back from injury, the Brazilian could get the nod in midweek.
ST: Robert Lewandowski - It's a timely return to form for the veteran, who's endured a tough 2023/24 season. Lewandowski scored twice at the weekend and his first goal was vintage.
LW: Vitor Roque - Roque has enjoyed a bright start to his Barcelona career and is set to make his Champions League debut on Wednesday. With Cancelo advancing, the youngster will operate close to Lewandowski.
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