Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has named his starting line-up to kick off his La Liga campaign, and the German has sprung a few surprises. Chief among them is a start for Gavi. The formation, meanwhile, carries the hallmarks of Barca's pre-season preparation for the new term.
Barcelona line up as follows: Joan Garcia, Eric, Christensen, Gerard Martin, Espart, Fermin, Bernal, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, Ademi and Raphinha. It is Flick's first competitive test in charge this season.
Handing Gavi a midfield berth from the start speaks volumes about Flick's faith in him. That decision underlines his standing in the German's plans, even with fierce competition for places in the middle of the park.
Balde's absence throws the spotlight onto Espart, who is expected to slot in at left-back. Flick is sticking with the players who caught the eye in pre-season, with four Spanish World Cup participants named in the side.
Also missing is Hamza Abdel Karim, forcing Flick to deploy a false nine up top. Either Ademi or Raphinha could fill that role alongside Lamine Yamal, giving Barcelona's attack greater flexibility against the opposition defence.
