Barcelona will chase a fourth Champions League title with Alexia Putellas expected to start in midfield when they meet Olympique Lyonnes in the final. The Spanish side are deep into the preparation for a match that could define their season, but one of the biggest calls still rests with coach Romeu and his lineup.
Cata Coll is expected to begin in goal, with Ona Batlle, Paredes, Mapi León and Brugts in defense. Patri and Alexia are tipped to anchor the midfield, while Pajor is expected to lead the attack. The uncertainty sits around the third midfield spot and the wide positions, where Romeu still has several options to weigh before kickoff.
That selection puzzle exists because Barcelona have about 14 players who could plausibly start in a final of this size. Serrrajordi arrives with more rhythm and minutes than Aitana Bonmatí, even though Aitana has recovered from her injury and is 100% fit to play. Last season, she was unanimously recognized as the world’s best player, which only sharpens the decision around the midfield core.
On the right wing, Graham is expected to get the nod because of her merit, level and ability to be decisive. The left side is just as crowded. Vicky López has had an excellent season, Pina has been more regular and has better statistical numbers, and Salma comes in with stronger momentum in recent weeks. Romeu will not make the lineup public until a little more than an hour before the match, leaving Barcelona’s final shape hidden until the last possible moment.
The stakes are clear. Barcelona are trying to add a fourth Champions League title, while Olympique Lyonnes arrive as the competition’s most decorated side with eight titles. With so many proven options and so little room to fit them all in, the final may turn as much on Romeu’s choices as on the football itself.
