How will Barcelona line up against Athletic Club?

San Mamés is the next port of call for a Barcelona side chasing a fourth straight victory in all competitions and determined to keep their firm grip on the La Liga summit. Yet the short trip to Bilbao comes at a delicate moment: Hansi Flick’s squad are still feeling the effects of Tuesday’s hard-fought win over Atlético Madrid and have the small matter of a Champions League last-16 first leg against Newcastle on the horizon.

The coach’s main headache lies in defence, where injuries to Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde have reduced him to only five fit senior defenders. Expect Eric Garcia to shift to right-back, with teenage centre-back Pau Cubarsí lining up alongside Gerard Martín in the middle and the ever-adaptable João Cancelo stationed on the left.

In midfield, the energy-sapping display against Atlético means Marc Bernal and Pedri are likely to be given a breather. Marc Casadó is poised to anchor the trio, flanked by Fermín López and Dani Olmo in a more traditional 4-3-3 that should offer both industry and invention.

Up front, Raphinha’s tank registered empty on Tuesday and, mindful of his recent injury history, Flick is expected to limit the Brazilian’s minutes. Marcus Rashford is projected to start on the left, Ferran Torres to spearhead the attack, and in-form Lamine Yamal to continue on the right, leaving Robert Lewandowski—available despite a protective mask—on standby for St James’ Park.

Possible XI (4-3-3): Joan García; Eric Garcia, Cubarsí, Martín, Cancelo; Fermín, Casadó, Olmo; Yamal, Ferran, Rashford.

Barcelona know three points in the Basque Country are non-negotiable if they are to keep their title destiny in their own hands before European hostilities resume.