What will Barcelona’s first La Liga starting XI back at Camp Nou look like?
Barcelona are finally coming home. After nearly two years of renovations, the Spotify Camp Nou will reopen on August 10, when the Catalan giants face off in the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy with Cesc Fàbregas’ Como rumored as the opponent. But all eyes are on La Liga’s opening weekend, when Barça’s new-look squad returns to the legendary stadium for competitive action.
With Hansi Flick at the helm and major squad changes taking shape, here’s a projected starting XI that fans and rivals alike should pay attention to.
Goalkeeper: Joan García – Barça’s New No. 1?
Joan García has arrived with one goal: to take over the gloves from Marc-André ter Stegen. After an elite 2023/24 season with Espanyol, García brings sharp reflexes, composure under pressure, and strong footwork crucial for Flick’s build-from-the-back philosophy. With Ter Stegen’s injury concerns and potential exit rumors, García could quickly become Barça’s trusted last line.
Defense: The Backbone of Barcelona’s New Era
Jules Koundé – Right Back Reinvented
Though naturally a center-back, Koundé has grown into the right-back role. His Copa del Rey heroics last season are proof he’s ready to shine under Flick.
Pau Cubarsí – 18-Year-Old Phenomenon
La Masia’s latest gem. At just 18, Cubarsí is already one of La Liga’s best ball-playing defenders. Expect him to start—and lead—for years to come.
Íñigo Martínez – The Veteran Rock
Still solid at 34, Martínez offers leadership, grit, and passing range. With Christensen potentially rotated, he becomes the left-sided anchor.
Alejandro Balde – Back, Faster and Better
After regaining fitness, Balde is ready to reclaim the left-back spot. His improved crossing and lightning pace make him an automatic starter.
Midfield: Where Flick Will Build His Identity
Frenkie de Jong – Holding the Fort
With Gavi still recovering, Frenkie drops deeper. His ability to glide past pressure and launch attacks will be vital to Barça’s midfield engine.
Pedri – The Brain Behind Barça
Barça are simply not the same without Pedri. His vision, control, and intelligence make him irreplaceable. Expect him to orchestrate every major play.
Attack: Speed, Youth, and Firepower
Raphinha – The New No. 10?
Now operating centrally in a 4-2-3-1, Raphinha is expected to be a creator and scorer. He ended last season as one of Barça’s most productive players.
Lamine Yamal – The Future Is Now
At just 17, Yamal is undroppable. He lit up the 24/25 season and will return even more dangerous. Injuries permitting, he could be the breakout star of the entire league.
Nico Williams – The €60M Statement Signing
Barça’s marquee transfer. Nico Williams adds raw pace, flair, and unpredictability on the left flank. If registered in time, he starts from Day 1.
Robert Lewandowski – The Final Chapter
This will likely be Lewandowski’s final season at Camp Nou. While his minutes may be reduced, he remains Barça’s most clinical finisher and will lead the line.
Bench Options & Youth to Watch
- Fermín López – aggressive and creative midfield spark
- Marc Bernal – seen as Gavi’s understudy
- Vitor Roque – Lewandowski’s heir apparent
- João Félix, Dani Olmo (if signed), and more may rotate based on form and formation shifts.
Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1 Formation)
Key Talking Points for Barça’s Camp Nou Return
- Will Flick stick with a 4-2-3-1, or revert to the classic 4-3-3?
- Can Nico and Yamal co-exist on the wings?
- How will Joan García handle the pressure of replacing Ter Stegen?
- Will Raphinha’s new role unlock even more goals?
August 10: The New Barcelona Era Begins
Barcelona’s return to Camp Nou isn’t just symbolic it’s a reset. Under Hansi Flick, with young stars ready to explode and new signings eager to prove their worth, the Catalans are building a squad that can challenge both domestically and in Europe.
This starting XI may not be the finished article, but it’s one that will define the early narrative of Barça 2024/25.
