Flick could make five changes as Cancelo, Koundé and Adeyemi return

Hansi Flick could make as many as five changes to Barcelona’s starting lineup against Racing Santander. Mundo Deportivo expects Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, João Cancelo, Dani Olmo and Karim Adeyemi to return.

This remains a predicted lineup rather than an official decision. Four of those names also appear in Diario AS’s projection, although the two newspapers disagree over one position in central defence.

FOUR RETURNS APPEAR IN BOTH PREDICTIONS

Both reports expect Barcelona to change their full-backs. Koundé is tipped to replace Eric García on the right, while Cancelo could come in for Xavi Espart on the opposite side. Both started Sunday’s victory over Levante on the bench.

Olmo is the leading candidate to replace Fermín López in midfield, with Pedri and Rodri expected to retain their places.

Adeyemi could take over from Anthony Gordon on the left wing. Raphinha and Lamine Yamal are not expected to be included in the rotation and should once again start in attack.

THE FIFTH CHANGE IS STILL UNCERTAIN

Mundo Deportivo also expects Christensen to replace Gerard Martín. If that happens, Barcelona would field the same starting eleven used against Feyenoord in the Champions League:

Joan García; Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Christensen, Cancelo; Rodri, Pedri, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Adeyemi.

AS offers a slightly different prediction. Its report suggests that Gerard Martín could remain alongside Cubarsí, limiting Flick’s changes to four.

The two sources agree on the broader picture: nearly every outfield line could be adjusted. Barcelona have spent the opening weeks of the season discussing the luxury of having two competitive teams. Against Racing, that claim may finally prove useful beyond the press room.

FLICK’S ROTATION PATTERN IS TAKING SHAPE

Flick’s selections have followed a recognisable pattern. García and Koundé have alternated at right-back, while Espart and Cancelo have shared minutes on the left. Adeyemi and Gordon have also repeatedly replaced one another.

Similar competition exists between Olmo and Fermín, as well as Christensen and Gerard Martín. The changes do not necessarily signal a new hierarchy. They are largely intended to control workloads before Saturday’s difficult trip to Sevilla.

Racing could therefore face a Barcelona side with almost half of its lineup changed but most of its leading players still involved. The final selection will only be confirmed shortly before kick-off.