Flick's Tactical Shift: Barcelona Faces Real Sociedad in Crucial LaLiga Clash
The Anoeta Stadium is set for a high-stakes encounter as FC Barcelona travels to face a formidable Real Sociedad side in a pivotal LaLiga EA Sports fixture scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026. Under the guidance of Hansi Flick, Barcelona arrives with significant tactical adjustments, aiming to solidify their standing against a tough Basque opponent.
Barcelona Unveils Surprising Starting XI
The most significant storyline heading into the match is the starting lineup chosen by Hansi Flick. With Raphinha ruled out due to injury, the German manager has opted for a midfield-heavy approach, prioritizing association over sheer width on the left flank. The starting XI features four changes from the recent Copa del Rey fixture.
The Flick Formula: Central Control
Barcelona’s defense remains largely settled: Joan García starts in goal, shielded by Koundé, Eric García, Cubarsí, and Balde. However, the engine room is where the transformation occurs. De Jong and Pedri return to the midfield pivot, joined by the dynamic duo of Fermín and the newly integrated Dani Olmo. This configuration suggests Flick is aiming for intricate, passing football, leveraging the technical quality of his central players.
Up top, Ferran Torres retains the central striking role, seemingly winning the battle against Robert Lewandowski for the starting number nine spot, at least for this match. Lamine Yamal completes the attacking trio. Analysts note that while this lineup might sacrifice some left-sided depth previously offered by players like Rashford (who drops out of the matchday squad), it promises greater collective synergy—the "formula Cornellà" involving Fermín and Olmo being key.
Real Sociedad's Response: Matarazzo's Rotations Return
Real Sociedad coach Pellegrino Matarazzo is countering Flick’s moves by reinstating several key players who were rested during the cup commitments. The Txuri-Urdin will line up in a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 setup, featuring Remiro between the sticks. The defense sees Jon Martín partnering Zubeldia.
Midfield and attack are reinforced with the returns of Brais Méndez, Turrientes, and Guedes. The attack is spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Oyarzabal and Kubo, posing a constant threat on the counter-attack. Matarazzo's side, known for its intensity at Anoeta, will look to exploit any lack of cohesion in Barcelona's newly formed midfield unit.
Key Lineups Confirmed
Real Sociedad XI: Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Jon Martín, Sergio Gómez; Brais Méndez, Turrientes, Carlos Soler, Kubo; Oyarzabal and Guedes.
Barcelona XI: Joan García; Koundé, Eric García, Cubarsí, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Fermín, Dani Olmo; Ferran Torres.
Statistical Edge Favors the Visitors
Despite the tactical uncertainty surrounding Flick’s new setup, statistical models give Barcelona the upper hand. According to OPTA projections, Barcelona holds a robust 56.3% probability of securing the victory. Real Sociedad’s chances are pegged at 21.5%, with the draw estimated at 22.1%.
Barcelona's Attacking Bright Spots
Fermín has been a revelation this season, matching Lamine Yamal as one of the team’s chief creators, reaching 10 assists for the campaign. Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal continues his ascent, having recently hit double figures in goals (10) to complement his eleven assists, highlighting the potent offensive core Flick has at his disposal.
Pre-Match Atmosphere and Legacy
The arrival of the Barcelona contingent at Anoeta was met with the traditional fanfare, including the presence of a 'Cat' accompanying the team. Meanwhile, former Barcelona and Real Sociedad goalkeeper Olazabal praised current Barça keeper Joan García, calling him a 'total goalkeeper.'
This fixture is more than just three points; it’s a test of Flick’s evolving philosophy against a highly organized LaLiga side. Barcelona’s ability to control possession and unlock Sociedad’s defense with their new midfield configuration will be the defining narrative of this highly anticipated Sunday night clash. Fans worldwide will be tuning in to see if Flick's calculated gamble pays off in the Basque Country.
