Hansi Flick’s Tactical Shift – Barcelona’s Expected Lineup vs. Rayo Vallecano

FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick is set to make one key change while adjusting his tactical system when the Blaugrana host Rayo Vallecano at Montjuïc on Monday.

Barcelona’s Title Race Revival

After squandering a six-point lead earlier in the season, Barcelona found themselves trailing Real Madrid by 10 points following a poor run of form in November and December. However, Los Blancos’ recent slump in February has opened the door for Barça to reclaim the top spot with a victory.

Despite the high stakes, Flick emphasized in his pre-match press conference that his team is focused on consistent performance rather than scoreboard watching.

“Many times we don’t look at the standings,” Flick stated. “It’s important, but there’s still a long way to go. I trust my team—they enjoy training, improving, and playing. Rayo is doing an extraordinary job, and their coach is incredible.”

Flick’s Tactical Adjustments for Rayo Vallecano Clash

Following a much-needed eight-day rest, Flick is tweaking his system from the 4-1 win over Sevilla.

• Wojciech Szczesny will start in goal.
• Pau Cubarsi replaces Ronald Araujo, partnering with Iñigo Martínez in central defense.
• Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé retain their roles as fullbacks.
• Frenkie de Jong will operate as the lone pivot, supporting an attacking midfield duo of Pedri and Gavi.
• The front three remains unchanged, with Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal leading the charge.

Barcelona’s Probable Starting XI vs. Rayo Vallecano

Szczesny; Balde, Cubarsi, Iñigo, Koundé; De Jong; Pedri, Gavi; Raphinha, Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal

With Barcelona looking to capitalize on Real Madrid’s slip-ups, a win against Rayo Vallecano could be a pivotal moment in the La Liga title race.