How Barcelona could line up against Rayo Vallecano

Barcelona are again expected to be without the services of Ronald Araujo for their penultimate match of the 2023-24 La Liga campaign against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday night.

Araujo is currently struggling with pain in his knee, and the 25-year-old, who was not in the squad for Thursday's 2-0 win over Almeria, is unlikely to be involved this weekend.

Xavi's side will also definitely be without the services of Gavi, Alejandro Balde and Frenkie de Jong, with the trio unavailable for Barcelona until the 2024-25 campaign.

De Jong, though, has been named in the initial Netherlands squad for Euro 2024, and the midfielder is expected to be available to represent his country in the tournament.

Head coach Xavi is likely to make changes to the side that took to the field for the first whistle against Almeria.

Joao Cancelo, Andreas Christensen and Raphinha could return to the XI, with Hector Fort, Sergi Roberto and Ferran Torres potentially being the three players to drop out.

Fermin Lopez scored a brace against Almeria and should keep his spot, while Araujo's expected absence could mean another start for Inigo Martinez in the middle of the defence.

Ilkay Gundogan is available again after a suspension, and he could replace Pedri, with the midfielder's fitness being managed in the latter stages of the campaign due to his injury problems.

Barcelona possible starting lineup: Ter Stegen; Kounde, Cubarsi, I Martinez, Cancelo; Fermin, Christensen, Gundogan; Yamal, Lewandowski, Raphinha