Barcelona begin LaLiga campaign against Elche as probable line-ups emerge

Barcelona will finally begin their LaLiga campaign on Sunday when they travel to face Elche in the second round of the Spanish championship, with the Catalan club’s opening fixture having been postponed.

The match marks the start of domestic league action for one of Spain’s biggest clubs and is expected to attract particular attention as Barcelona make their first appearance of the season. Probable line-ups have been outlined ahead of the meeting, with both sides preparing for contrasting tactical approaches.

Elche coach Anselmi is expected to set up his team with a compact defensive block against the reigning champions. Matias Dituro is likely to start in goal, providing what is viewed as a dependable final barrier behind the defence.

Marc Aguado is expected to play an important role in midfield, where his balance and intensity could help Elche cope with Barcelona’s possession and attacking movement. New signing Fer Nino is projected to lead the line and give the home side a focal point in attack. His role will be to occupy Barcelona’s defenders and help Elche launch transitions when opportunities arise.

The possible Elche line-up is:

Goalkeeper: Matias Dituro

Defenders: Buba Sangare, David Affengruber, Federico Redondo, Victor Chust, German Valera

Midfielders: Gonzalo Villar, Martim Neto, Marc Aguado, Ali Houary

Striker: Fer Nino

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, meanwhile, is expected to hand Joan Garcia his first LaLiga start for the club. The goalkeeper is considered to have looked solid and fresh following pre-season preparations.

Lamine Yamal is likely to provide Barcelona’s main creative threat on the right flank. His ability to carry the ball and create chances will be central to Flick’s plans as the visitors look to break down Elche’s expected defensive structure.

Raphinha is projected to captain the side and operate as a false nine. The Brazil international is expected to lead Barcelona’s attack and play a key role in finding openings against Elche’s compact shape.

Barcelona’s probable line-up is:

Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia

Defenders: Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Alejandro Balde

Midfielders: Pedri, Dani Olmo, Eric Garcia

Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Anthony Gordon

The fixture is scheduled to be Elche’s second match of the LaLiga season, with the club set to face Barcelona in what is being billed as a highly anticipated contest.

Betting company 1xbet lists Barcelona as clear favourites. Elche are priced at 9.3 to win, while a draw is valued at 5.9 and a Barcelona victory at 1.4.