Barcelona welcome Real Sociedad to Camp Nou on Wednesday looking to book their place in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey.

This year’s quarter-finals pits two of the competition’s last three winners against each other, with La Real prevailing in 2020 and Barça following one year later.

No side has won this competition more often than Barcelona, who lead the way with 31 triumphs. Here’s how Xavi’s men could set out on their quest to secure number 32.

GK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen – After a couple of years of inconsistent performances, Ter Stegen now looks the real deal between the sticks for Barcelona again.

RB: Jules Kounde – Has slotted in seamlessly at right-back when called upon by Xavi to play there since arriving from Sevilla.

CB: Ronald Araujo – Since returning from injury, few defenders in Europe have been as formidable as the dogged Araujo.

CB: Eric Garcia – Has been linked with a move back to England this window. He could have a rare chance to impress Xavi here.

LB: Jordi Alba – Father Time is beginning to catch up with Alba but he still has his uses.

DM: Sergio Busquets – Similarly nearing the end of his career, Busquets still brings a technical and mental level that is nearly unmatched in this Barcelona squad.

CM: Pedri – Seems to have overcome his various injury woes after a busy couple of years to start life in Catalonia.

CM: Frenkie de Jong – Easy to see why he’s still wanted by Manchester United. A shuffling of the midfield pack could afford Gavi some rest.

RW: Ousmane Dembele – Like Pedri has managed to stay fit this season and Barcelona have hugely benefited from it.

CF: Robert Lewandowski – Still serving a La Liga ban but is eligible to play in the cup.

LW: Raphinha – The Brazil winger has put a slow start at Camp Nou behind him and has become a dependable player for Barcelona in recent weeks.

Credit: 90min.com

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *