FC Barcelona is set to face CD Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey on December 16, 2025. The match will take place at Campo de Fútbol Pedro Escartín, kicking off at 15:00 hours EST, 14:00 hours in Mexico, and 21:00 hours in Spain.
Barcelona’s Potential Starting Lineup Against Guadalajara
Barcelona may rotate several key players to manage fatigue. Here’s the likely lineup:
Projected Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: Joan García
- Defenders:
- Jules Koundé
- Pau Cubarsí
- Gerard Martín
- Alejandro Balde
- Midfielders:
- Eric García
- Marc Bernal
- Pedri
- Fermín López
- Raphinha
- Forward: Ferran Torres
Joan García, at 23 years old, is the first-choice goalkeeper, noted for his reflexes. With Marc-André ter Stegen recovering from injury and Wojciech Szczesny suffering from stomach issues, García is expected to feature prominently.
Defensively, Jules Koundé stands out as one of the world’s top defenders, offering speed and ball-playing capabilities. Pau Cubarsí, at just 18 years old, displays maturity, while 23-year-old Gerard Martín has filled in well alongside him, particularly in the absence of Ronald Araujo.
Alejandro Balde provides explosive pace on the left flank, making him a threat in attack. In midfield, Eric García showcases technical skills and game vision, while Marc Bernal, also 18, is being compared to Sergio Busquets for his physical presence and tactical intelligence. Pedri acts as the team’s playmaker, demonstrating exceptional vision and composure.
Fermín López, another rising star, shows great energy and has recently returned from injury. In attack, Raphinha is enjoying a resurgence under coach Hansi Flick, while Ferran Torres assumes a crucial role, particularly with Robert Lewandowski potentially sidelined.
Guadalajara’s Predicted Lineup
CD Guadalajara will likely adopt a similar 4-3-3 formation. Their expected lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Amador Zarco
- Defenders:
- Julio Martínez
- Javier Ablanque
- Daniel Gallardo
- Víctor Rodríguez
- Midfielders:
- Antonio Calvo
- Samuel Mayo
- Raúl Tavares
- Forwards:
- Alejandro Domingo
- David Amigo
- Salifo Mendes
This Copa del Rey encounter promises to be an exciting clash between two formidable teams. Fans from both sides will be eager to see how their squads line up in this knockout stage match.
