Barcelona have enjoyed a winning start to their La Liga season which continues on Tuesday night with a trip to Rayo Vallecano.

Hansi Flick has watched on while his new side picked up back-to-back 2-1 victories over Valencia and Athletic Club to hand them a two-point lead over title holders Real Madrid with two games played.

The German manager has a fair few injury concerns to worry about in the buildup to this midweek encounter, though a summer signing could make his club debut in a timely boost for the visitors.

Here’s the predicted Barca lineup for Tuesday night.

GK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen – Will now get his time as Germany’s regular goalkeeper after Manuel Neuer announced his international retirement.

RB: Jules Kounde – The Frenchman was described by teammate Lamine Yamal as the “best rb in the world rn” on social media after his strong showing against Barca transfer target Nico Williams in the 2-1 win over Athletic.

CB: Pau Cubarsi – Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araujo are both out of action, but Cubarsi started ahead of the Dane in the first game anyway and may partner Araujo when the Uruguayan returns.

CB: Inigo Martinez – The elder statesman in the team at 33 years of age, Martinez said he would back Williams however the young winger decides to handle the transfer interest from Barca.

LB: Alejandro Balde – Is back in the starting lineup after last season’s long injury layoff and enjoying his football, looking adventurous from left-back against Athletic.

CM: Marc Bernal – Injuries to the likes of Frenkie de Jong and Gavi have opened the door to Bernal and Marc Casado to get minutes in central midfield. It could be the former who retains his place in the starting XI.

CM: Pedri – Barca must be cautious not to give Pedri too much work too soon, given he was injured midway through Euro 2024, but Flick is unlikely to look elsewhere here given their other absences.

RW: Lamine Yamal – Has continued his dizzying summer form into the early stages of the La Liga season, scoring the opener last time out.

AM: Dani Olmo – It may finally be time for Spain international Olmo to make his maiden bow for Barca. La Liga have reportedly accepted his registration and he could be thrown straight into the starting XI.

LW: Raphinha – Featured in a central role at the weekend but could be pushed back out to the left wing if Olmo is available, forcing Ferran Torres onto the bench.

ST: Robert Lewandowski – It’s not Kylian Mbappe who leads the Pichichi Trophy race at this early stage of the season. Veteran Polish striker Lewandowski has three goals already following his brace against Valencia and winner against Athletic.

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