Eintracht Lineup in Barcelona: How Toppmöller Resolves the Striker Dilemma
Eintracht Frankfurt faces a critical match against FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League on December 9, 2025. The team’s coach, Dino Toppmöller, is under pressure as injury issues plague his squad.
Eintracht’s Striker Dilemma
The absence of key players in the forward position has raised significant concerns for Toppmöller. Michy Batshuayi is sidelined indefinitely due to a metatarsal fracture. In addition to Batshuayi, Jonathan Burkardt and Timothy Chandler are also unable to play, while Jessic Ngankam has not been registered for the Champions League.
Squad Adjustments
To cope with these setbacks, the coach has opted for a strategy that reinforces the central midfield. The expected lineup includes:
- Zetterer
- Kristensen, Koch, Theate, Brown
- Skhiri, Larsson, Chaibi
- Doan, Götze
- Knauff
Ansgar Knauff returns to the squad after a brief illness, having previously scored against Barcelona in their Europa League encounter in 2022. Despite his absence from recent matches, his return is seen as a significant boost for Frankfurt.
Coach Under Fire
Toppmöller has faced intense scrutiny following a 6-0 defeat to Leipzig. He acknowledged the pressure but emphasized the need for his players to remain focused and respond effectively. “You always have challenges to face,” he stated in a press conference ahead of the game at Camp Nou.
Match Importance
This upcoming match is vital for Eintracht Frankfurt, especially after a poor performance in their last outing. Mario Götze noted that they need to avoid a repeat of the Leipzig loss. The key to success will lie in maintaining stability and winning crucial duels on the field.
Defensively, the team must effectively counter Barcelona’s star players, including Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Robert Lewandowski. For Eintracht Frankfurt, playing with determination and strategy could turn the tide in their favor.
As they prepare to confront Barcelona before approximately 2,500 traveling fans, the team’s ability to rise to the occasion remains to be seen.
