Koeman ready to make surprise off-the-bench inclusion in Bayern Munich clash

Usually, the predicted lineup’s for Barcelona ahead of any clash run wild on media, with the reporters having a fairly sound idea of who will start on the night. However, heading into the clash against Bayern Munich, not even Ronald Koeman knows who will start.

Juan Marti of SPORT reports that Barcelona youngster Nico and Gavi could well be included in the squad against Bayern Munich and could have a role to play in the Champions League encounter.

The La Masia graduates will reportedly not play more than 60 minutes in Barcelona B’s encounter later today in preparation for their call-up. This is a request directly made by Ronald Koeman that has been accepted by the Segunda B team.

Nico has played thirty minutes of first-team football in the opening three games. The youngster came on against both Getafe and Real Sociedad and delivered powerful performances.

Gavi meanwhile had a major role to play in the preseason and has also featured for the first team on the bench in the opening games of the league, eventually making his debut against Getafe.

The midfield on the night seems set to be Sergio Busquets, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong. Sergi Roberto strongly knocks on the door, too, especially after delivering a match-winning performance in the 18-year-old Pedri’s absence.

That said, it will be difficult for Nico and Gavi to find minutes against Bayern Munich. However, they have proven to be valuable assets on the bench and can help change the tempo of the game at any instant.