Rashford to Lead Injury-Impacted Barcelona Forward Line Against Girona
Barcelona faces a crucial match against Girona this Saturday, with the opportunity to reclaim the top position in La Liga. Currently, Real Madrid is not playing until Sunday, which means a victory for Barça would put them ahead of their rivals before next weekend’s Clásico. However, Barcelona is looking to bounce back from recent defeats to Sevilla and Paris Saint-Germain. Injury concerns, particularly in their attacking lineup, are complicating their path to victory.
Injury Challenges for Barcelona
Barcelona is dealing with several injuries that threaten their offensive capabilities. Key players Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres are sidelined due to injuries picked up during the international break, often referred to as the “FIFA Virus.” In their absence, Marcus Rashford is set to lead Barcelona’s forward line against Girona.
Projected Starting Lineup
- GK: Wojciech Szczęsny – Filling in for injured goalkeepers Joan García and Marc-André ter Stegen, Szczęsny made crucial saves to avoid an embarrassing defeat against Sevilla.
- RB: Jules Koundé – The veteran defender faces a challenging match ahead, having struggled against Alexis Sánchez in Seville.
- CB: Ronald Araújo – Rested after not participating in the international matches, Araújo is expected to start despite a previous penalty conceded against Sevilla.
- CB: Pau Cubarsí – After a brief international outing, Cubarsí will partner with Araújo, aiming for a clean sheet.
- LB: Alejandro Balde – Returning to the starting lineup after managing his return from injury, Balde looks to make an impact once more.
- DM: Frenkie de Jong – Eager to mark his new long-term contract with a win, he may show signs of fatigue after international matches.
- DM: Marc Casadó – With injuries affecting the midfield, Casadó is anticipated to take a pivotal role in the double pivot.
- RW: Roony Bardghji – Though Lamine Yamal is available, he may start from the bench, allowing Bardghji to take the right wing position.
- AM: Pedri – Tasked with leading the midfield, Pedri is crucial in orchestrating play given the injuries to Dani Olmo and Gavi.
- LW: Fermín López – Set to return from injury, López may take his place on the left flank.
- ST: Marcus Rashford – Stepping up in the absence of Lewandowski and Torres, Rashford is expected to lead the attack against Girona.
Looking Ahead
Despite the injury setbacks, Barcelona faces Girona, one of the weaker teams in La Liga this season. The match at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys presents an opportunity for Barcelona to regain their momentum and enhance their standing in the league.
