Official: Barcelona starting lineup against Las Palmas | La Liga

Barcelona are back in action after a two-week hiatus during the Christmas break as they take on Las Palmas, and one of their very own in Garcia Pimienta.

It is also the halfway point of the season, and they have the chance to create a three-point separation between themselves and Atletico Madrid, who lost 4-3 to Girona yesternight in a seven-goal thriller.

Xavi has gone for the best possible starting lineup available to him in light with the injuries to Gavi, Inigo Martinez, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and most recently Pedri.

Inaki Pena starts in goal in the German’s absence, hoping to keep a clean sheet for the first time in a month. The Spaniard has around a month left as the first-choice keeper as ter Stegen continues making progress on his injury.

Ronald Araujo is indispensable despite his recent poor form, and starts in central defence with the captain’s armband. He will be partnered by Jules Kounde, who takes over the other centre-back spot.

Joao Cancelo has been given the nod to start as the right-back, while Alejandro Balde provides width from the left side.

In midfield, meanwhile, Ilkay Gundogan starts as a pivot once again, but at least has Frenkie de Jong back in action to complement him. Sergi Roberto completes the midfield, retaining his spot after a match-winning brace against Almeria.

Vitor Roque starts on the bench as Robert Lewandowski continues in his no. 9 slot.

Ferran Torres‘ solid performances off the bench have not gone unnoticed as he starts over Joao Felix as the left-winger, while Raphinha retains his spot on the right side.

🟦 BARÇA XI 🟥#LasPalmasBarça pic.twitter.com/mhsRHxh25q

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 4, 2024