According to a report by Barca Universal on Sunday, August 23, 2026, Barcelona have announced their starting lineup for their opening LaLiga fixture against Elche, with manager Hansi Flick making several interesting selection decisions.

Flick has handed a surprise starting role to Xavi Espart, while new signing Karim Adeyemi has also been named in the starting XI in an attacking position.

The Barcelona manager had already attracted attention by leaving Alejandro Balde, Marc Casado and Hector Fort out of the squad for the season opener. His final selection has created further discussion, particularly with Espart being trusted to start at left-back.

The youngster is expected to occupy the left side of Barcelona’s defence, while new signing Joao Cancelo starts on the bench. Eric Garcia will operate at right-back, with Andreas Christensen and Gerard Martin forming the central defensive partnership.

Marc Bernal has been selected as the deepest midfielder and will be responsible for helping Barcelona control the tempo. He will be joined in midfield by Gavi and Fermin Lopez, giving Flick an energetic and attack-minded trio.

In attack, Flick has chosen an interesting setup, with Adeyemi starting as a false nine. Raphinha and Lamine Yamal will provide support from the wings, while the German forward will look to use his pace and movement to create openings for Barcelona’s dangerous wide players.

Barcelona also have several strong options on the bench. Joao Cancelo, Pedri and Jules Kounde are among the experienced players Flick can introduce if he needs to change the team's approach during the match.

New signing Anthony Gordon is also among the substitutes and could make his Barcelona debut in the second half. Flick can also turn to Hamza Abdelkarim, who has attracted attention and offers another option at centre-forward.

Barcelona XI: Xavi Espart, Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martin, Marc Bernal, Gavi, Fermin Lopez, Raphinha, Karim Adeyemi, Lamine Yamal.