Official: Barcelona starting lineup vs Linares, Copa del Rey

The La Liga seems completely out of sight for Barcelona as they sit 15 points adrift of leaders Real Madrid. The Europa League might be a possibility if they can get past the qualifying stage vs Napoli. As it stands, the Copa del Rey is the only saving grace for the Blaugranas.

Ahead of the Round of 32 fixture against Linares, Xavi has selected an interesting lineup, featuring none other than Mr. Good Crazy — Dani Alves. The Barcelona legend will make his re-debut tonight, starting as the right-back. He will partner Jordi Alba as the fullbacks, while Eric Garcia and Ronald Araujo start in the centre. Neto takes responsibility of the goal.

Sergio Busquets makes his first appearance of the year after serving his suspension vs Mallorca. Frenkie de Jong is rested while Riqui Puig and Nico Gonzalez retain their place in the starting XI.

Barça XI#LinaresBarça
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— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 5, 2022

With no strikers present in the side, Ferran Jutgla will spearhead the attack. Ilais Akhomach also continues at right-wing, and they will be joined by a familiar, yet strange face in attack — Jordi Alba.

Confirmed Barça XI: Neto; Alves, Araujo, Eric, Mingueza; Nico, Busquets, Puig; Ilias, Jutgla, Alba