After a winning start at Son Moix to kick off the new season, FC Barcelona head to the Ciutat de València to face promoted Levante in La Liga 2025/26, with kickoff set for 21:30 local time. The challenge remains to keep pace at the top of the table and to continue building momentum early in the campaign.
The clash presents a tricky test for Hansi Flick’s side, who travel to a stadium where they have often found the going tough since 2018. Barca have managed only two wins in six visits in that period, with three defeats and a draw to show for it. The matchup is already shaping up as a potential “trap game” for the visitors, even though the last meeting yielded a Barca victory. In Xavi’s first season, a late-header struck by Luuk de Jong delivered a dramatic win for the Blaugrana.
Lewandowski back in action
The big news of the day is the return of Robert Lewandowski, who has shaken off a left thigh muscle issue. The Polish striker, who turned 37 on Thursday, has trained with the squad and features in Flick’s squad, though the expectation is that he will be used as a substitute and introduced in the second half. Ferran Torres or Marcus Rashford could take his place in the starting XI.
Frenkie de Jong, meanwhile, is not in the squad. The Dutch midfielder did not train normally this week due to personal reasons, as he remains in Barcelona to rest and avoid risk in the early weeks of the season. Gavi or Marc Casadó will step in to fill the midfield void.
Gerard Martín update
Another setback for Barcelona is the failure to register Gerard Martín in time. The club had been working on a deal to terminate Oriol Romeu’s contract to free space for a left-back, but the agreement was not completed by Saturday. Flick had hoped to count on the Esplugues defender for this match, but the situation won’t be resolved in time.
Barça’s squad for the Levante trip
The Barça squad announced for the match against Levante in La Liga 2025/26 Jornada 2 includes: Iñaki Peña, Joan García, Kochen (goalkeepers); Balde, Araujo, Cubarsí, Christensen, Koundé, Eric, Jofre (defenders); Gavi, Pedri, Fermín, Casadó, Olmo, Dro (midfielders); Ferran Torres, Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Rashford, and Toni Fernández (forwards).
What to watch
– Lewandowski’s involvement: Expect 20–45 minutes off the bench as he regains sharpness, with an eye on building fitness for upcoming fixtures.
– Midfield balance: De Jong’s absence opens room for Gavi or Casadó to make an impact from the start.
– Tactical setup: Levante’s status as a newly promoted side means Barcelona will need to break down a compact opponent and manage a potentially physical game at home’s surroundings.
– Squad depth test: With the left-back slot under pressure due to the Romeo/Martín situation, Flick will have to manage systems and personnel carefully.
Summary
Barcelona aim to maintain their strong start and extend a positive away record against Levante, while navigating potential squad limitations early in the season. The return of Lewandowski adds a strong attacking option, even if his immediate involvement may be off the bench. The match promises to test Barca’s depth and focus as they seek to stay top of the table and keep delivering consistent performances at the start of the campaign.