Image Source: Sports Illustrated
La Liga leaders Barcelona are aiming to extend their remarkable start to the 2026–27 campaign when they travel to Levante on Sunday. Hansi Flick’s side has won each of its first five matches in all competitions and will be looking for another statement performance in Valencia.
Barcelona’s attacking form has been especially impressive. The Catalan club has scored five goals in each of its last three matches, while also finding the net five times in both of its away fixtures this season. That momentum has made Barça one of the most dangerous teams in Spanish football during the early weeks of the campaign.
Levante, however, will hope home advantage can disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm. Luís Castro’s team produced an eye-catching 5–2 victory over Real Betis in its most recent home appearance, although that result has been the exception rather than the rule. Levante has collected only one win from its opening four matches.
Barcelona’s Predicted La Liga Lineup vs. Levante
Flick is expected to make several changes after Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Feyenoord. The Barcelona manager has plenty of options across the squad, but the predicted lineup still features several of the club’s biggest stars.
- Goalkeeper: Joan García — García has kept two clean sheets in Barcelona’s away matches this season. His inclusion on the Yashin Trophy shortlist has also highlighted his rapid rise since joining the club.
- Right back: Jules Koundé — With Eric García recovering from a broken nose, Koundé is expected to continue at right back. His defensive discipline could be important against Levante’s counterattacks.
- Center backs: Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín — Cubarsí has started the season with growing confidence, while academy graduate Gerard Martín could return after being rested in midweek.
- Left back: Xavi Espart — The versatile 19-year-old was rotated out of the Champions League lineup and may come back into the team on Sunday.
- Midfielders: Rodri, Pedri and Fermín López — Rodri provides control and experience, while Pedri continues to occupy a central role in Flick’s plans. Fermín could return after Dani Olmo started against Feyenoord.
- Right wing: Lamine Yamal — Yamal is in sensational form, with five goals and two assists across his last three games. His creativity and direct running will be a major concern for Levante.
- Left wing: Anthony Gordon — Gordon has recorded four assists in his last four matches and has quickly become an energetic option in Barcelona’s attack.
- Striker: Raphinha — Raphinha’s explosive start has reduced the urgency surrounding Barcelona’s interest in another elite forward. He remains one of the team’s most influential attacking players.
Yamal and Raphinha Lead Barcelona’s Explosive Attack
The spotlight will once again fall on Yamal and Raphinha. Yamal has combined remarkable numbers with the confidence to take on defenders, while Raphinha has offered leadership, movement and end product in the final third.
Barcelona’s attack has also benefited from a balanced midfield. Pedri’s composure helps the team control possession, while Rodri’s arrival gives Flick another player capable of dictating the tempo. Fermín López, meanwhile, brings intensity and a willingness to make late runs into the penalty area.
That combination could prove decisive against a Levante defense that has conceded heavily in several matches. Barcelona will likely dominate possession, but the visitors must remain alert to the hosts’ ability to create chances in transition.
What to Expect From Sunday’s Clash
Barcelona enter the match as clear favorites, but Levante’s home victory over Betis shows that the fixture cannot be taken lightly. The Granotes have the attacking talent to punish defensive mistakes, particularly if Barcelona’s fullbacks push high up the field.
Still, Barça’s recent results make them difficult to oppose. Five consecutive wins, consistent scoring and the emergence of Yamal as a global superstar have created a powerful sense of belief around the team.
A victory would allow Barcelona to maintain its early momentum in La Liga and further establish Flick’s side as a leading contender. For Levante, holding Barcelona back would provide a major boost after a difficult opening stretch.
FAQs
When will Barcelona play Levante?
Barcelona are scheduled to face Levante on Sunday in Valencia as part of the early 2026–27 La Liga campaign.
Who is expected to start for Barcelona?
Joan García is expected in goal, with Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín and Xavi Espart likely to form the defense. Rodri, Pedri and Fermín López are projected in midfield.
Which Barcelona players are in the best form?
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are the standout attacking players. Yamal has five goals and two assists in his last three games, while Raphinha has made an electric start to the season.
What is Levante’s recent home record?
Levante’s most notable recent home result was a 5–2 win over Betis. However, the club has won only once in its first four matches overall.
