Official: Barcelona starting lineup to face Real Sociedad

Barcelona will debut their stunning golden kit as they venture into opposition territory for the first time this season. The Anoeta is all set to host one of its favourite rivals. Real Sociedad are looking to build on their impressive start, while Barça want to register their first win of the season.

Xavi has gone for a traditional 4-3-3, contrary to reports suggesting that he could deploy a 3-4-3 diamond to fit in Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan, instead, starts at right-again.

Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia start at the heart of the defence, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen donning the captain’s armband in goal.

Alejandro Balde gets his first start of the season following a lousy outing from Jordi Alba last week. He starts at left-back, hoping to build on his superb pre-season display.

With Sergio Busquets suspended, Frenkie de Jong receives his first start of the season in defensive midfield. He has Pedri and Gavi to his aid as interiors, while Miralem PJanic starts on the bench.

One change in attack, as Ferran Torres has been awarded a start following Raphinha’s less-than-idea debut. He starts on the left, with Ousmane Dembele retaining his spot on the right. Robert Lewandowski spearheads the team on his birthday.

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— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_cat) August 21, 2022

Confirmed Barcelona XI: ter Stegen; Araujo, Christensen, Garcia, Balde; Gavi, de Jong, Pedri; Dembele, Lewandowski, Torres