The stage is set for a thrilling encounter in the opening match of the 2024/25 Champions League as Barcelona travel to face AS Monaco. The Catalan giants are in top form, having secured five wins in five La Liga matches, but their injury woes are mounting with each passing week. The latest blow came with the news of new signing Dani Olmo suffering an injury that will sideline him for four to five weeks. His absence adds to the growing list of absentees, including midfielders Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and Marc Bernal, as well as defenders Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen.
Despite these challenges, Barcelona will be looking to make a statement in the new era of the Champions League. However, they face a formidable opponent in Monaco, who are currently sitting in third place in Ligue 1 after a promising start to the season with three wins and a draw. The home side will be eager to make the most of their home advantage and challenge the La Liga leaders.
The starting lineups for both teams have been announced:
AS Monaco:
Kohn; Vanderson, Kehrer, Mawissa Elebi, Caio Henrique; Camara, Zakaria; Akliouche, Minamino, Ben Seghir; Embolo
Barcelona:
Ter Stegen; Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Balde; Eric Garcia, Pedri, Casado; Lamine Yamal, Lewandowski, Raphinha
The match promises to be a captivating clash between two strong sides. Barcelona will be aiming to overcome their injury concerns and secure a winning start to their Champions League campaign, while Monaco will be looking to capitalize on any weaknesses to pull off an upset. This is a match not to be missed as the new era of the Champions League kicks off with a bang!
