Barcelona lineup vs. Real Betis: Predicted XI for Copa del Rey clash with Ronald Araujo set to start

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo is expected to start Wednesday's Copa del Rey last-16 clash against Real Betis despite being linked with a potential move to Juventus.

Centre-back Inigo Martinez has joined Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Marc Bernal on the sidelines after he picked up a hamstring injury in Sunday's 5-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final.

Araujo replaced the injured Martinez in the 28th minute to make his second appearance since returning from an injury layoff.

The Uruguay international is now expected to be given the opportunity to partner Pau Cubarsi in central defence for Wednesday's Copa del Rey fixture, while Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde should operate as the two full-backs.

The Barcelona backline will offer the final line of defence to goalkeeper Inaki Pena, who is set to make his first appearance of 2025 after being dropped for the Spanish Super Cup for turning up late to an activation session ahead of the semi-final clash with Athletic Club.

Wojciech Szczesny was given the chance to start both Super Cup matches, but he is now set to serve a one-match ban after being sent off in the final for denying Kylian Mbappe a goalscoring opportunity.

In midfield, Pedri is expected to line up alongside Marc Casado, but there is a possibility that Gavi may drop out of the side after starting back-to-back games for the first time since returning from an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

If Hansi Flick decides against risking Gavi, Dani Olmo could be given a starting spot after he and Pau Victor were registered on a short-term basis following Barcelona's appeal to Spain's Supreme Sports Council (CSD).

Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are likely to provide the threat from out wide unless Flick opts to rest either of his key attackers.

The pair are set to offer supporter to experienced forward Robert Lewandowski, who is looking to add to the 26 goals that he has scored this season.

Barcelona possible starting lineup: Pena; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Balde; Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski