Barcelona will welcome Real Sociedad at the Camp Nou on Wednesday, seeking to reserve its place in the King’s Cup semi-finals.
This year’s quarter-final pits two of the competition’s last three winners against each other, with Real Madrid winning in 2020, and a year later.
No team has won this tournament more often than Barcelona, who lead with 31 victories. Here’s how Xavi’s men can launch in their quest for No. 32.
Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre ter Stegen – After two years of inconsistent displays, Ter Stegen now looks like the real deal between the sticks for Barcelona once again.
Right back: Jules Conde – He slotted seamlessly into the right-back position when Xavi called on to play there since he arrived from Sevilla.
Center back: Ronald Araujo – Since returning from injury, few defenders in Europe have been as great as the struggling Araujo.
CB: Eric Garcia – This window has been linked to the return to England. He may have a rare chance to impress Xavi here.
Left-back: Jordi Alba – Father Time is starting to catch up with Alba but he still has his uses.
DM: Sergio Busquets – Likewise towards the end of his career, Busquets still brings a technical and mental level that is almost unparalleled in this Barcelona team.
CM: Pedri – It appears he has overcome various injury problems after a busy two years to start life in Catalonia.
CM: Frenkie de Jong – It’s easy to see why he keeps asking Manchester United. A midfield pack change could provide some relief for Gavi.
RW: Ousmane Dembele – Like Pedri, he has managed to stay fit this season and Barcelona have benefited greatly from him.
CF: Robert Lewandowski – He is still serving his La Liga ban but is eligible to play in the Cup.
LW: Ravenha – The Brazil winger has put a slow start to the Camp Nou behind him and has become a reliable player for Barcelona in recent weeks.
