Deprived of Robert Lewandowski for this final of the King's Cup against Real Madrid, FC Barcelona had to resolve a major equation: who to replace its star scorer? Until the last hours preceding the kick -off in Seville, the mystery remained whole, nourishing all speculation around the starting eleven chosen by Hansi Flick. Finally, the Catalan coach decided, while operating some unexpected choices in several lines.
It was Ferran Torres who was preferred to occupy the axis of the Barcelona attack. The former Manchester City player will have the heavy task of making Lewandowski forget by leading the offensive. It will be supported by an offensive trio made up of Raphinha, Dani Olmo and the young prodigy Lamine Yamal. In the midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will form the double sentry as expected, while Gavi will have to be satisfied with a place on the bench. An attack reshaped, but always formidable on paper.
Ferran Torres replaces Lewandowski, discover the full eleven
In defense, injuries continue to weigh. With Alejandro Baldé unavailable, Gerard Martin is tenured on the left flank, while Jules Koundé occupies the right side. As a central hinge, íñigo Martínez is associated with revelation Paulo Cubarsí, preferred to Ronald Araujo. A daring choice of Flick, which bets on youth to contain Madrid assaults.
Lewandowski absent, Flick bets on an attack full of surprises
Another strong decision: despite the return of Marc-André Ter Stegen to the group, Hansi Flick chose to maintain his confidence in Wojciech Szczęsny in the cages, rewarding his solid performance during the long absence of the German goalkeeper. Despite some absent weight, this BARça reshaped keeps proud looks and aims to win a 32ᵉ King's Cup.
With two victories this season against his Madrid rival, and nine goals scored in two confrontations, FC Barcelona intends to continue its series. With several potential candidates for the Ballon d'Or on the ground, the Blaugrana want to send a strong message by once again striking their eternal rival and by living their dream of tripled.
