Flick to make major changes to his starting XI for Copa del Rey clash against Racing

With the Spanish Super Cup already secured, Barcelona now turn their full attention back to domestic cup action, where the Blaugrana are set to face Racing Santander in the Copa del Rey Round of 16. 

According to a report from SPORT, Hansi Flick is expected to make several changes to his starting XI as he looks to manage minutes and keep his squad fresh.

Rotation is very much on Flick’s mind after an intense Super Cup campaign. 

He is aware of the physical load on his key players and sees the Copa del Rey as an opportunity to involve others who have been waiting patiently for their chance. 

The biggest question

One of the biggest talking points ahead of the trip to Santander surrounds the goalkeeping situation.

There is uncertainty over whether Wojciech Szczęsny will once again offer his place to Marc-Andre ter Stegen, as has happened before, or whether Flick himself will step in and make a firm decision. 

This issue carries extra weight given that Ter Stegen’s future is also being discussed during this winter transfer window.

Defence and midfield

In defence, Jofre Torrents is expected to be available once again after starting at left-back against CD Guadalajara. 

Jofre Torrents could return to the starting XI. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Another notable option is Ronald Araujo, who was given minutes in the Spanish Super Cup final. 

Flick wanted the Uruguayan to feel fully involved, and the upcoming match could provide the perfect setting for him to build rhythm and confidence.

The midfield could see the most dramatic overhaul. Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Fermín currently form the backbone of the team, but Flick is considering fresh legs. 

Marc Bernal, Marc Casado and Dani Olmo are all strong candidates to feature. Whether all three start together remains to be seen, but there is a real possibility of a completely reshaped midfield.

Chance for the summer signings

In attack, both Roony Bardghji and Marcus Rashford are targeting a Copa del Rey start, just as they did in Guadalajara. 

Flick does not underestimate Racing Santander, knowing they represent a much tougher challenge than Barcelona’s previous cup opponent. 

One option on the table is to repeat the Bardghji–Lamine Yamal–Rashford trio, leaving players such as Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski or Raphinha on the bench. 

What does seem clear is that Bardghji and Rashford are likely to occupy the wings, as both have a point to prove.