With the defense of last season, with Joao Félix on the bench and with Pedri also waiting for his opportunity among the substitutes. That is Xavi Hernández’s starting bet for tonight’s semifinal against Osasuna. Absent due to injury, Cancelo, who is not even in the squad for the match, the Barcelona coach turns to the four defenders who worked brilliantly for him a year ago: Koundé, Araújo, Christensen and Balde. It will be necessary to see if it is the Frenchman or the Uruguayan who starts off on the right side.
For the midfield, Xavi opts for the experience of De Jong, Gündogan and captain Sergi Roberto. He could have opted for Fermín, who shone in Barbastro, but he preferred a profile of tougher footballers.
Xavi sacrifices again João Félix, as at Las Palmas, and keeps faith in Raphinha, Ferran Torres and Lewandowski. Brazilian Vitor Roque is also awaiting his chance during the game after two ratito outings in Canaria and Barbastro.
This is the full squad of Barcelona: Iñaki Peña, Koundé, Araújo, Christensen, Balde, De Jong, Sergi Roberto, Gündogan, Raphinha, Ferran Torres and Lewandowski.
