Hansi Flick picks Barça’s likely XI vs Galatasaray in the Champions League

Hansi Flick has mapped out his likely Barça XI for their Champions League game against Galatasaray, aiming to handle the pressure of the Ali Sami Yen atmosphere. The German coach said he’ll lean on a group with “experience” to deal with adversity, making clear that it doesn’t mean only older players or excluding the youngsters.

A balanced XI

In defense, Flick’s plan has Eric García and Cancelo as full-backs, with Cubarsí and Gerard Martín forming the center-back partnership. Midfield duties fall to Rodri and Pedri, while Gordon, Fermín and Lamine will look to create chances, with Gabriel Jesus tasked with finishing. Nine of the starting eleven are internationals; Eric García also had to return during the last international break due to minor issues.

Kluivert doesn’t join up

Flick called Shane Kluivert to cover training, but he then returned to the Juvenil camp, which is also based in Istanbul. The club confirmed he won’t be with the first team. Joan Laporta led the trip, with Joan Soler, Xavier Puig, Carme Hortalà and Jaume Santiveri joining the delegation, and Laporta is set to hold a lunch with Galatasaray’s top figures, according to Mundo Deportivo.