Football
Report: Hansi Flick to Make Big Changes to Barcelona Lineup Against CA Osasuna

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick will reportedly make some key changes to the lineup in the La Liga clash with CA Osasuna.
Barcelona, who are currently at the top of the La Liga rankings, will host 11th-ranked CA Osasuna at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on Saturday, March 8. With Atletico Madrid sitting just a point behind, the Blaugrana cannot afford to slip up this weekend.
Barcelona vs Osasuna: Hansi Flick to Make Key Changes After Brutal Champions League Showdown
Barcelona need to capitalize on every opportunity to get to the Spanish championship ahead of the Madrid clubs, but due to fixture congestion, Flick cannot afford to field his strongest XI in every game. According to Diario SPORT, the German tactician will respect his players’ need for recovery and make multiple changes for the game against Osasuna.
Right-back Jules Kounde, centre-backs Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia; and Gerard Martin will form the four-man backline. This will allow Inigo Martinez to get much-needed rest following the 1-0 first-leg victory over Benfica in the Round of 16 of the Champions League. Not only did he put in a back-breaking shift after Cubarsi’s 22nd-minute red card, but he also picked up a knock after a rough challenge from Leandro Barreiro. Alejandro Balde is also likely to sit the game out after he suffered a knock on his ankle against Benfica.
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In midfield, Marc Casado could get the nod ahead of Frenkie de Jong, who started against Benfica. Gavi could also return to the fold if he can beat the fever that has been keeping him out for the last couple of games. Dani Olmo, who made way for Ronald Araujo after Cubarsi’s dismissal, could complete the midfield.
Lastly, in attack, Lamine Yamal is likely to start on the right flank, as Flick subbed him off quite early against Benfica. Ferran Torres could feature, replacing either Raphinha or Robert Lewandowski. Depending on Flick’s tactical preferences, Fermin Lopez could also get a shot to showcase his talents on Saturday night.
It will be interesting to see which of these fringe players capitalize on the opportunity and give Flick a selection headache for next week’s return leg against Benfica.