"After Real Madrid's 4-0 win over Valencia, the pressure on Barcelona has intensified like never before this season. The Catalans now find themselves seven points adrift of the league leaders, and with every game becoming a potential turning point, tonight's fixture against Elche has turned into a must-win encounter. Barcelona have been through a difficult run lately, suffering three defeats in their last five games, a sequence that has shaken confidence both in the dressing room and among supporters."
"However, history is on their side. The Blaugrana have won their last ten matches against Elche and have never lost to them at home. The big boost for Flick comes in the form of returning stars Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo, both of whom rejoined training this week following injury layoffs. While the duo is expected to make the matchday squad, the manager will likely take a cautious approach, using them as substitutes rather than rushing them back into the starting XI."
"Jules Kounde remains the undisputed choice at right-back, offering both stability and attacking support. At centre-back, Pau Cubarsi could be given a rest after spending most of this week in the gym rather than on the training pitch, though his absence is not injury-related. This opens the door for Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia to form the central pairing. On the left flank, Alejandro Balde is set to continue, providing pace and width down the defensive line."
Real Madrid's 4-0 victory over Valencia has left Barcelona seven points behind the league leaders, turning the upcoming match against Elche into a must-win. Barcelona have lost three of their last five matches, denting confidence in the squad and among supporters. The Blaugrana hold a strong head-to-head record against Elche, winning the last ten meetings and remaining unbeaten at home. Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo have returned to training and are expected on the bench as cautious reinforcements. Defensive adjustments may include Kounde at right-back, Araujo and Eric Garcia centrally, and Balde on the left. Midfield concerns persist with Pedri sidelined and Frenkie de Jong expected to assume greater responsibility.
Read at Barca Universal
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