In the realm of football, the La Liga match between Mallorca and Barcelona commences this Saturday. With Marcus Rashford's participation uncertain, the Catalan giants look to begin their title defence on a winning note.
Barcelona to Defend La Liga Title Against Mallorca
Barcelona will look to defend their La Liga title as they face Mallorca at Estadi Mallorca Son Moix in Mallorca, Spain, on Saturday. The Catalan giants are expected to be without striker Robert Lewandowski due to a hamstring injury, with Ferran Torres set to lead the attack in his absence.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen is also out of action with a long-term back injury, and Joan Garcia is set to make his debut in goal for Barcelona. Marcus Rashford, who has joined the club on loan from Manchester United, might not start due to registration issues. Notable absences for Barcelona include Bardghji, Gerard Martin, Marc Bernal, and Wojciech Szczesny due to similar issues.
Mallorca will be without Pablo Maffeo due to a hamstring injury, and they will aim to challenge Barcelona at home. The Balearic Island club have won 17 of their 75 meetings against Barcelona, and they will be hoping to add to that tally this weekend.
The corresponding fixture last season resulted in a 5-1 win for Barca, with Raphinha netting twice. Mallorca will be boosted by the return of Spain Under-21 international Mateo Joseph, who is also in line to feature for the home side.
Predicted Lineups
Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Garcia (GK); Koundé, Araújo, Cubarsí, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Fermín Lopez, Raphinha; Ferran Torres leading the attack.
Mallorca (4-2-3-1): Roman (GK); Morey, Raillo, Valjent, Mojica; Morlanes, Mascarell; Asano, Darder, Torre; Muriqi.
Key Points
- Samu Costa is out injured, but the rest of the Mallorca squad is in good shape.
- Vedat Muriqi is expected to start as the forward for Mallorca.
- Takuma Asano and Sergi Darder will be involved in attacking midfield roles for Mallorca.
- Manu Morlanes and Omar Mascarell are expected in central midfield for Mallorca.
- Omar Mascarell has a suspension hanging over from last season after his booking in the final game of the last La Liga campaign.
- Pablo Torre is set to start against his former side, having joined from Barcelona in the summer window.
The match kicks off at Estadi Son Moix in Palma, with Barcelona entering as favourites. Barcelona had a successful season last year, winning the league, Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, and reaching the semifinals of the Champions League.
The match will be broadcast on Al Jazeera Sport. Rashford's move to Barcelona presents a huge chance to rebuild his career, and he will compete with Ferran Torres for a place in Barca's attack.
- Breaking news: Barcelona's clash with Mallorca on Saturday promises a fierce football match, with the Catalan giants aiming to defend their La Liga title.
- The anticipated matchup will showcase key players like Ferran Torres leading Barcelona's attack and Vedat Muriqi starting for Mallorca in their forward position.
