Recent content by PhilS

Ban, please.

As I predicted, after these first four games . . .my prefiction is looking overly pessimistic. The defense might prevent a 100 point season in La Liga, but Barca will score over 100 goals. The competition for the 4 attacking positions, and the way the attackers combine, this will be the best...

Balde will start. Probably Fermin, too.

I never thought I would be saying this, but I sure am glad to see Eric on the squad list. He is the only Liga-level backup at both CB positions and DM. Is he also the backup at RB? Fort has not impressed, I'd rather see Eric give it a try if Koude goes down or wears out.

Well, the first name on the lineup has to be Olmo. He'll be running the offense from here on in. Although Fermin has not been needed yet, surely you have to keep a talent like that in game shape, must play, rest someone to do so.

Can only rest another defender if Garcia is available. Thinner than thin back there.

Olmo, Fermin, Balde, that's a lot of firepower to bring in as subs. Could well be desicive today.

If there can only one more purchase, let it be a RB. There is no need for another attacker. Must keep Garcia, at least until mid-season. Sell or loan Torre and Fort.

Pedri and Fermin will start, Olmo will sub. With Raphinha playing so well now, maybe Lamine and/or Lewa can get at least 1/2 hour of rest.

4-5-1. Flick played the best players available, everyone plays defence. Even Lewa is running more. Flick is tremendous with his subs, energy level stays high right to the whistle.

I hope to not see Garcia today, the Williams brothers are too quick. I'm also worried about whether Casado can contain them.

Late goal by the sub Fermin will win this one. First of numerous wins from the supersubs.

Well, wirhout the addition of any first-rate talent like Nico, Flick will have to field his most talented players available, regardless of the positions they have played in the past. Assuming Gundogab leaves, until Gavi, De Jong and Aruajo return: GK: Ter Stegen, injury or suspension...

He did get beat for speed repearedly on defense. Valencia failed to take advantage, but opponents with competent attacks will. Copa or preseason level on defense.

OK, this is a big chance for Bernal, Casado and Ferran to show what they can offer. Christensen and Pedri can come in to shore up the midfield, hopefully before it is too late.