Hansi Flick announced “some changes” to the lineup for the Girona game compared to the side he picked on Thursday in the 4-0 Copa del Rey semi first leg loss to Atlético. The gradual return of Raphinha from injury and absences of Pedri, Rashford, Christensen and Gavi point to a few tweaks rather than a wholesale rotation.
Three players who could come into the starting eleven are Ronald Araujo, Gerard Marín and Marc Bernal. The midfield spot would act as a replacement for Marc Casadó, but it is not yet clear whom the two defenders would replace. Gerard has Flick’s trust both as a left full-back (instead of Alejandro Balde) and as a left-sided centre-back, while Araujo feels fit to play in the heart of the defence. Eric García, having played many consecutive matches, might be rested; Pau Cubarsí could also need a break. Jules Koundé may even be kept on the bench for the same reason. Also to consider is João Cancelo, who arrived on loan and can cover both flanks, although his lack of match rhythm is a drawback.
There are likely to be fewer changes in midfield and attack beyond the inclusion of Bernal. Robert Lewandowski did not show Ferran’s spark at the Metropolitano — Ferran seemed more accurate in finishing. With Raphinha expected to come on in the final half-hour, it does not look like a day for Roony either. A tactical tweak is possible: against Atlético Dani Olmo played on the left and Fermín in midfield; at Monilivi they could switch positions.
