Pablo Torre, Raphinha start in a 4-2-3-1: How Barcelona could line up against Viktoria Plzen

Inter Milan and Bayern Munich proved to be too much for a revitalised Barcelona this season in the Champions League as they bowed out in the group stages, finishing third.

They do have a shot at European glory thanks to the Europa League, but would be barely interested in the same after heavy investment to their team in the summer transfer window.

After signing Robert Lewandowski, Franck Kessie, Jules Kounde, Raphinha, Andreas Christensen, Marcos Alonso, Pablo Torre, and Hector Bellerin, one would have expected Xavi’s men to make it to the Round of 16, at the very least.

Alas, it was not to be. They still have the chance to register only their second win in the competition this season as they take on Viktoria Plzen in the final round of the group stages.

It is, in essence, a fixture with zero consequences. And as such, Xavi has already confirmed that the team will be rotated, with youngsters and fringe players receiving chances irrespective of the result.

Starters

We already know the two players who will be starting tomorrow – of which one is Inaki Pena. The Spaniard will take responsibility in goal, replacing Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has been in immaculate form this season.

We expect a change of shape tomorrow, but with Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen, and Eric Garcia all injured, it seems unlikely that Xavi can use anything but a back-four.

By natural selection, Gerard Pique is the only fit centre-back in the team, and will take charge of the defence, partnering with Marcos Alonso. The duo has been far from impressive this season but will hope to put to change their fortunes starting tomorrow.

Hector Bellerin is expected to get the nod at right-back, while Alejandro Balde will likely be rested for this game. Jordi Alba has been largely faultless each time he has played of late and should start at left-back.

Xavi has confirmed the inclusion of Pablo Torre for the game, and we expect him to take up an advanced midfield role tomorrow. Xavi has tried to use a second striker/No. 10 a few times this season, and the 19-year-old fits in perfectly in that role.

This means, behind him, we will likely see a double pivot. Franck Kessie is tailor-made for that sort of role and could get the nod alongside Frenkie de Jong.

With Robert Lewandowski rested due to back discomfort, Ferran Torres is expected to shoulder the responsibility of the striker role on Tuesday. Ansu Fati should start to his left, especially because the duo’s ability to drift wide could mean fluid movement in the attacking third.

We expect Raphinha to round off the starting lineup against Viktoria Plzen, playing on the right wing. The Brazilian assisted Lewandowski’s winner against Valencia and deserves to play ahead of Dembele following two disappointing performances.

Substitutes

Following the trend of giving chances to youngsters, we predict a couple of debuts will be in line for the team tomorrow.

Marc Casado has evidently impressed Xavi and has been a part of the matchday squad a few times now. He could come on at right-back or defensive midfield, while Ilias Akhomach could get some minutes on the wing.

Alex Valle has been called up as well and could replace Jordi Alba as the left-back. Not to forget Alvaro Sanz, either, who has already played a few games for the Catalans.

Ousmane Dembele could be given a few minutes in the hopes of keeping him motivated and charged for the league, at the very least.