Barcelona head coach Xavi is expected to make a couple of changes to his starting side for Friday's La Liga clash with Sevilla at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.

Robert Lewandowski was rested from the start against Mallorca on Tuesday evening, but the Poland international is set to return to the first XI for the clash with the Europa League holders.

Jules Kounde was also moved down to the bench for the 2-2 draw last time out, and the Frenchman is expected to follow Lewandowski in returning to the side on Friday.

Head coach Xavi now has an interesting dilemma in the middle of the defence, as Ronald Araujo is back fit, meaning that Andreas Christensen could now find himself out of the first XI.

Raphinha's goal against Mallorca could see him retain his spot on the right for this match, with Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal both likely to start on the bench.

Fermin Lopez came off the bench to score on Tuesday, while Sergi Roberto is another midfield option, but Gavi is again expected to be joined in the middle by Ilkay Gundogan and Oriol Romeu.

Pedri is in the latter stages of his recovery from a thigh issue, but this match will come too soon for him.

Frenkie de Jong is also sidelined due to the ankle injury that he suffered during the 3-2 loss to Celta Vigo in the league last weekend.

Barcelona possible starting lineup: Ter Stegen; Cancelo, Araujo, Kounde, Balde; Gundogan, Romeu, Gavi; Raphinha, Lewandowski, Felix

Written by
Matt Law