- Barcelona aiming to avenge last year’s final defeat to Real Madrid
- Hansi Flick’s squad getting healthier to start 2025
- Gavi shines in the semi-final win over Athletic Club
Barcelona has started 2025 on a positive note, leaving behind the struggles of late 2024. On Sunday, they have the chance to claim the first silverware of the Hansi Flick era in the Supercopa de España final.
Flick’s side secured their spot in the final with a confident 2-0 victory over Athletic Club on Wednesday, and they’ll face their eternal rivals Real Madrid in the showpiece event. Despite Real’s impressive 3-0 semi-final win over Mallorca, Barca will take confidence from their October Clasico triumph and the additional recovery time they’ve had since their midweek match.
While Flick’s squad is regaining key players, drastic changes from the semi-final lineup are unlikely. Here’s how Barcelona could line up against Real Madrid on Sunday.
Contents
Barcelona Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
- Inaki Pena
With Marc-Andre ter Stegen still unavailable, Pena remains Barcelona’s trusted option between the sticks.
Defenders
- RB: Jules Kounde
Kounde’s defensive intelligence will be critical in managing Madrid’s dynamic attack. - CB: Pau Cubarsi
The teenager has impressed Hansi Flick, and he’s expected to retain his spot in the heart of the defense. - CB: Inigo Martinez
Araujo’s return to fitness is a boost, but the Martinez-Cubarsi pairing, fresh off a clean sheet, is likely to continue. - LB: Alejandro Balde
After a strong showing against Athletic Club, Balde remains the top choice for the left-back position.
Midfielders
- CM: Marc Casado
The La Masia graduate has been a revelation this season, keeping even Frenkie de Jong out of the lineup. His composure will be vital against Madrid’s star-studded midfield. - CM: Pedri
Fully fit and in form, Pedri’s creativity and control will be key to Barca’s success in the middle of the park.
Forwards
- RM: Lamine Yamal
Yamal was a nightmare for Madrid in October and will look to replicate that performance after a solid semi-final outing. - AM: Gavi
Operating in a more advanced role, Gavi shone against Athletic and is expected to be the driving force behind Barca’s attack in the absence of Dani Olmo. - LM: Raphinha
While wasteful in the semi-final, Raphinha’s scoring record this season suggests he could make a decisive impact in the final.
Striker
- Robert Lewandowski
Despite a frustrating outing against Athletic, Lewandowski’s track record against Real Madrid – including his iconic Dortmund performance – speaks for itself.
Key Factors
Barcelona’s youthful energy and returning stars provide them with the tools to challenge Madrid. With players like Yamal and Gavi stepping up, coupled with Lewandowski’s experience, La Blaugrana will look to avenge last year’s Supercopa heartbreak and claim their first trophy under Hansi Flick.
