Barcelona set for major changes against Getafe as Gabriel Jesus prepares for first start

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is expected to make several changes for Saturday’s meeting with Getafe at Spotify Camp Nou, with goalkeeper Joan Garcia and forward Gabriel Jesus among those set to feature in a much-changed side.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, Barcelona’s return to action after an international break of almost three weeks, combined with a demanding run of fixtures ahead, is likely to prompt Flick to rotate his squad.

Barcelona face important matches against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid in the near future, increasing the likelihood that players who have featured less regularly will be given opportunities against Jose Bordalas’ Getafe.

Joan Garcia is expected to return in goal after recovering from a right knee injury sustained during the match against Racing on 16 September. Gabriel Jesus, meanwhile, is in line to make his first start for Barcelona as the central striker.

The Brazilian could replace Raphinha, who has not fully recovered from the muscle oedema he suffered last week while with Brazil.

Flick is also expected to hand starts to Gavi and Alejandro Balde. For Balde, it would be his first appearance in the starting XI this season.

Pedri and Rodri could be rested, while Fermin Lopez is expected to feature in midfield after not playing in all of his national team’s matches.

Eric Garcia is set to occupy the right-back position following his recovery from muscular fatigue. Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin are expected to form the central defensive partnership.

There appears to be little prospect of Lamine Yamal being left out of the attack, given the exceptional form he is currently showing. He has continued to score and provide assists at a notable rate.

The main uncertainty concerns the left-wing position. The contest is expected to be chiefly between Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, who are regarded as the leading candidates to start there.

Barcelona’s predicted line-up is:

Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia

Defenders: Alejandro Balde, Gerard Martin, Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia

Midfielders: Gavi, Fermin Lopez, Pedri

Forwards: Karim Adeyemi, Gabriel Jesus, Lamine Yamal