Barça is at Estadi Johan Cruyff to host Valencia, in what will be its first home match in this league. While the stadium has been the most talked-about news of the week, after Hansi Flick's line-up everything has changed. The surprise was in the starting eleven, with Raphinha on the bench, something that didn't catch Laporta by surprise in the box.
"Raphinha's situation is a punishment, he arrived late to the activation session, he was going to be a starter," Joan Laporta commented in a conversation with visiting fans and directors. FC Barcelona faces a challenging September, packed with matches and, although this benching was surprising, the reality is that every cloud has a silver lining. After a week away from Europe, the Brazilian will get a short break.
Hansi Flick, without fear
No one expected it, but Roony Bardghji will make his debut with Barcelona and will do so as a starter. The Swede will be in charge of replacing Lamine Yamal on the right, although initially it was planned for Raphinha to play. This punishment has especially benefited the young player, who will have the chance to shine from the start of the match against Valencia.
Beyond that, Barça's starting eleven is: Joan García; Koundé, Cubarsí, Eric García, Gerard Martín; Pedri, Casadó, Fermín; Roony, Ferran, and Rashford.
No room for mistakes
What Hansi Flick is certain about is that, after the international break, Barcelona can't afford to make mistakes. It's necessary to secure the victory to avoid falling behind the leader, which right now is Real Madrid. After drawing against Rayo Vallecano, it's essential to get all three points against Valencia at Estadi Johan Cruyff.
There is total calm in a Barcelona that knows the season is long. It approaches this match with several important absences, such as Lamine Yamal, De Jong, Balde, Gavi, and Ter Stegen.
Hansi Flick believes the culer squad is well prepared for this clash. There is no fear and the confidence is at its highest to secure the victory against Valencia. Joan Laporta will experience it while presiding over the directors' box.