Araujo, Bernal start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Girona

Barcelona travel to Estadi Montilivi this evening needing a swift response after the 4-0 Copa del Rey drubbing at the hands of Atlético Madrid, and Hansi Flick is expected to lean on two emerging names to steady the ship: Ronald Araújo and 17-year-old Marc Bernal.

With Real Madrid’s victory over Real Sociedad opening a two-point gap at the summit, the reigning champions can ill-afford another slip against a Girona side that sits 15th, only two points above the drop zone and winless in three.

Goalkeeper Joan García retains his place despite last week’s nightmare in the capital, while a reshuffled back four should see Araújo partner teenage prodigy Pau Cubarsi in the heart of defence. Full-back issues persist—Jules Koundé’s dip in form and João Cancelo’s continued omission could hand Eric García a surprise start at right-back, with Alejandro Balde’s attacking thrust retained on the left.

In midfield, Bernal’s inclusion appears certain after Marc Casadó’s early withdrawal in mid-week. The youngster will sit alongside Frenkie de Jong in the double pivot, freeing Dani Olmo to operate as the central No. 10.

On the flanks, Lamine Yamal is an automatic pick on the right, while Fermín López is poised to start on the opposite wing, with Raphinha—just returning from injury—potentially eased in off the bench and Marcus Rashford still unavailable. Up front, Robert Lewandowski is set to reclaim the striker’s role from Ferran Torres.

Barcelona’s 4-2-3-1 blueprint, anchored by Araújo’s leadership and Bernal’s energy, will aim to reassert control and keep pressure on Madrid at the top.