Sun Jan 18 19:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Barcelona Faces Real Sociedad with Tactical Shift Amid Raphinha’s Absence
The Story:
FC Barcelona is set to face Real Sociedad in a crucial LaLiga EA Sports match on January 18, 2026, with manager Hansi Flick making several changes to the starting eleven. The most notable absence is Raphinha, sidelined due to injury. Eric Garcia returns to the defense, while De Jong and Pedri reclaim their spots in midfield. Fermín and Dani Olmo are also included in the attacking lineup. The tactical shift sees Ferran Torres preferred over Lewandowski as the central striker. Real Sociedad, managed by Pellegrino Matarazzo, is making five changes from their Copa lineup, reintroducing key players such as Remiro, Jon Martín, and Brais Méndez.
Key Points:
- The match takes place on January 18, 2026, for the 20th round of LaLiga EA Sports.
- Raphinha is out due to injury, leading to a tactical reshuffle by Hansi Flick.
- Eric Garcia, De Jong, Pedri, Fermín, and Dani Olmo return to the starting lineup.
- Ferran Torres starts as the striker, again ahead of Lewandowski.
- Real Sociedad makes five changes to their lineup, bringing back key players.
- Opta gives Barcelona a 56.3% chance of winning, compared to Real Sociedad’s 21.5%.
Key Takeaways:
- Raphinha’s absence forces Flick to adjust Barcelona’s tactical approach.
- The midfield is strengthened with the return of De Jong and Pedri.
- Ferran Torres continues to gain Flick’s confidence as the preferred striker over Lewandowski.
- Real Sociedad aims to leverage their home advantage with key players returning.
- The match represents a tactical battle between Flick and Matarazzo.
First Piper 