Barcelona brace for Atletico Champs League clash as Hansi Flick names squad

Head coach Hansi Flick confirmed his squad ahead of the trip to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, with his side needing a strong response after a 2-0 defeat in the first leg at the Spotify Camp Nou. 

The result left Barcelona with a significant deficit to overturn if they are to reach the semi-finals.

There was a timely boost for the visitors with Frenkie de Jong included in the squad after recently returning from a hamstring injury. His presence is expected to strengthen Barcelona's midfield control in what promises to be an intense encounter.

Defensively, however, Barcelona will be without Pau Cubarsi, who is suspended following his red card in the first leg. His absence presents a challenge for Flick as he reshapes his back line for one of the club's most important fixtures of the campaign.

There is also uncertainty surrounding Marc Bernal, who has travelled but remains a doubt as he continues his recovery from an ankle sprain. In better news, Gerard Martin has recovered from a recent injury concern and is available for selection.

Flick has also included several young players in the squad, with Tommy Marques, Xavi Espart, and Alvaro Cortes all making the trip, highlighting the club's willingness to trust its emerging talent on the European stage.

In attack, Barcelona will look to experienced forward Robert Lewandowski and rising star Lamine Yamal to lead the fightback.

With a place in the semi-finals on the line, Barcelona know they must deliver a disciplined and clinical performance on Tuesday night to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League hopes alive.

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