How will Barcelona line up against Real Mallorca in La Liga?

Barcelona aims to maintain their narrow lead at the top of La Liga when they host Mallorca at Camp Nou on Saturday. Manager Hansi Flick is expected to field a strong lineup following several rotations in the recent Copa del Rey victory over Albacete.

In defense, Flick is likely to revert to his preferred back four, featuring Jules Koundé at right-back, Pau Cubarsí and Eric García as center-backs, and Alejandro Balde at left-back.

The midfield trio of Frenkie de Jong, Dani Olmo, and Fermín López, who were instrumental in creating numerous chances in the previous league match against Elche, is anticipated to start again. This attacking setup is seen as a strategic choice against a Mallorca side expected to employ a defensive low block with a back five.

In attack, Raphinha is set to miss the game due to a minor groin injury, with Marcus Rashford retaining his place on the left wing. Ferran Torres is predicted to return to the lineup ahead of Robert Lewandowski as the central striker, while the in-form Lamine Yamal will start on the right wing, looking to continue his impressive performances.

The predicted starting lineup is a 4-3-3 formation: Joan; Koundé, Cubarsí, Eric, Balde; Fermín, De Jong, Olmo; Yamal, Ferran, Rashford.