Barcelona will look to bounce back from domestic frustrations when they host Brest in their UEFA Champions League clash at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Tuesday.
The Catalan giants, led by Hansi Flick, remain in firm control of their European campaign despite a recent La Liga draw against Celta Vigo. With nine points from four matches, Barcelona will aim to consolidate their position in the competition with another win.
Brest, under Eric Roy, have impressed in their maiden Champions League outing. The French side sit fourth in the standings, two points ahead of their hosts, thanks to a series of strong performances.
Despite their European success, Brest's Ligue 1 form has dipped, with three consecutive losses, leaving them eager to regain momentum.
Barcelona Team News
Barcelona are expected to make adjustments following their weekend draw. Frenkie de Jong and Alejandro Balde are likely to return to the starting lineup, providing added stability and creativity in midfield and defence, respectively.
The absence of key players such as Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen, and Marc-André ter Stegen due to injuries presents challenges, but Flick's squad depth remains a strength.
Robert Lewandowski, supported by Dani Olmo, Pedri, and Raphinha, is set to spearhead the attack. In goal, backup keeper Iñaki Peña should retain his place, while Jules Koundé and Iñigo Martínez are likely to form the core of the defence alongside the promising Pau Cubarsí.
Barcelona Predicted Lineup to face Brest
Pena; Kounde, Cubarsi, I Martinez, Balde; De Jong, Casado; Olmo, Pedri, Raphinha; Lewandowski
Here is how the side last lined up
Brest Team News
Eric Roy faces selection dilemmas, with several first-choice players, including Pierre Lees-Melou and Massadio Haidara, potentially unavailable.
Ludovic Ajorque is expected to lead the line, supported by Romain Faivre and Franck Honorat. However, Bradley Locko's long-term absence due to an Achilles injury remains a blow.
Jean-Kevin Duverne and Brendan Chardonnet are expected to anchor the defence, while Marco Bizot will continue in goal. Brest's midfield could see adjustments depending on Lees-Melou's fitness test ahead of the clash.
Brest Predicted Lineup to face Barcelona
Bizot; Lala, Chardonnet, Le Cardinal, Amavi; Camara, Lees-Melou, Fernandes; Balde, Ajorque, Doumbia

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