Official: Barcelona starting lineup against Atletico Madrid – Gavi in; No De Jong, Rashford

Official: Barcelona starting lineup against Atletico Madrid – Gavi in; No De Jong, Rashford

With the odds against them, FC Barcelona will be gunning for a remontada as they take on Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

The Catalans suffered a 0-2 loss at home in the first leg of their quarter-final tie, leaving them with everything to do in the second leg tonight at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

And, with kick-off a little over an hour away, manager Hansi Flick has announced the starting lineup that will take the field against Diego Simeone’s side.

Despite all the chat surrounding the possibility of Frenkie de Jong returning to the starting XI, Flick has decided not to rush the Dutchman.

Instead, it is Gavi who starts in midfield once again, pairing up with close friend Pedri.

Meanwhile, in attack, Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres both retain their places after top displays over the weekend against RCD Espanyol.

Marcus Rashford, who was expected to start on the left flank, has been left out as Flick has opted to go with both Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, meaning Barcelona will have four midfielders on the pitch.

Moving to the defensive line, Eric Garcia replaces the suspended Pau Cubarsi at centre-back, after featuring in midfield in the past few matches. Gerard Martin continues in the lineup after shaking off an injury scare from the weekend clash.

Joao Cancelo returns at left-back, replacing Alejandro Balde, while Jules Kounde starts on the right side. Joan Garcia continues in goal as usual.