Xavi Gundogan Lineup

How Barcelona should line up for the 2023-24 season: No starting spot for star signing for Ilkay Gundogan - yet!

This is harder than it should be. Barca won La Liga by some distance last year, tallying 88 points and grinding through the season thanks to the best defence in Europe. But they have lost some key players from the side who lifted the title. Sergio Busquets, who enjoyed a rebirth of sorts, has left for Inter Miami. Ousmane Dembele, the provider of timely goals and assists, is seemingly on his way to PSG. While Jordi Alba, one of the leaders of the squad, has teamed up with Busquets - and Lionel Messi - in Florida.

Barca seem set to field a similar XI, but certainly have some holes to fill. However, they don't appear to have brought in the right players to do so. The Blaugrana need a new No.6, but who among their new acquisitions - or current options - can be trusted to play the position reliably?

It's just one of a few issues that Xavi faces as he looks to piece together a side that can once again compete for the La Liga crown. Although Barca's financial issues are well-chronicled, there's always the chance that a new famous lever frees up some cash. Neymar is among the reported targets, but any deal would be tough to get across the line. Until then, the coach still has some interesting options. GOAL looks at how Barcelona should line up this season...

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