Barcelona start TWO 16-year-olds in must-win clash with Real Betis as La Liga debutant Pau Cubarsi joins Lamine Yamal in Xavi's lineup

The reigning Spanish champions lined up with centre-back Cubarsi being given the nod to start just days after making his senior debut against Unionistas in the Copa del Rey. He joins fellow academy graduate Lamine Yamal as the youngest players on the team. Cubarsi could make it a very happy birthday with a good display as he turns 17 on Monday.

Xavi was full of praise for the defender after he played 45 minutes against the third-tier opposition in midweek, saying: "Cubarsí is ready to play tomorrow and in any game. He played with great personality in the Cup and he did very well. We have a lot of hope for him. He’s very young but we believe he’s ready."

While Cubarsi gets his first run out in the Spanish top-flight, Yamal has almost established himself as a first-team star. He has featured in all 19 of Barca's La Liga matches this season - seven from the start - and played all six of their Champions League matches.

Xavi will hope his young players rise to the occasion as his team are in danger of falling out of the title race in La Liga. Their struggles have sparked reports that Xavi is under pressure at the Catalan club and could be forced out if results don't improve soon.