Barcelona progress as Flick rotates and backs Garcia
Barcelona’s XI: Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Balde; Casado, Bernal; Yamal, Olmo, Rashford; Ferran. Rotated side for Copa del Rey tie at Racing with Cancelo, Pedri, Raphinha, Lewandowski on bench.
Barcelona visit Real Sociedad top of La Liga. Gavi out long-term after knee surgery; Andreas Christensen sidelined with ACL injury. No suspensions for Flick’s side.
Hansi Flick starts Joan Garcia vs Racing, calling him “the number one”. Six changes made, with Pedri, Raphinha and Lewandowski benched; warns of Racing’s direct style after Madrid’s Albacete shock.
Barcelona and Real Madrid monitor Ajax teen Rayane Bounida. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder has 12 senior apps; AS say both clubs have detailed reports and see him as a future star.
Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal score as Barcelona beat Racing 2-0 to reach Copa del Rey quarters. Joan Garcia’s late save key; two Racing goals ruled offside. Flick rotated after Super Cup win.
