Barcelona is moving forward with a strong sporting project. Under Hansi Flick, they have focused on their young talents, winning last season’s league title. As they aim for a third consecutive championship, the team is set to face Rayo Vallecano in LaLiga’s Matchday 3, but they will be without Robert Lewandowski in the starting lineup.
Although Robert Lewandowski scored 27 goals last season, he will not start against Rayo Vallecano. This is not a tactical choice; rather, he is not fully fit after suffering a hamstring injury during preseason. While he is not starting, the Polish forward will be on the bench and may come on later in the match.
In his place, head coach Hansi Flick will start Ferran Torres as striker against Rayo Vallecano. Although this isn’t his usual role, he scored 10 goals last season and has found the net in the first two games of LaLiga 2025-26, proving he can challenge Lewandowski for the starting spot.
Barcelona faces injury challenges to key players
Barcelona has started the new LaLiga season with some injury setbacks. Hansi Flick’s squad will be without Pablo Gaviria ‘Gavi’ and Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The goalkeeper will be out for an extended period, while the young midfielder’s return is uncertain due to issues with his right knee, which was seriously injured last year.
FC Barcelona players Gavi and Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Despite these injuries, Flick’s team will not rush recoveries. Joan Garcia has been signed to cover for ter Stegen, allowing him to secure the starting goalkeeper position. Although Gavi is a standout player, the emergence of Fermin Lopez, the signing of Dani Olmo, and Pedri Gonzalez’s form offer strong options in midfield.
Barcelona’s confirmed lineup vs Rayo Vallecano
Barcelona will feature Ferran Torres as the starting striker against Rayo Vallecano, along with additional lineup changes. Even though Ronald Araujo is fit, Hansi Flick has opted for Eric Garcia to partner with Andres Christensen in defense, completely reshaping the back line. Dani Olmo also makes his first start of the season in attacking midfield.
The Culers will lineup as follows: Joan Garcia; Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, Alejandro Balde; Frenkie De Jong, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha; Ferran Torres.