Flick's Tactical Shake-Up: Barcelona Travels to Anoeta for High-Stakes Clash with Real Sociedad

The atmosphere at Anoeta is set for another classic LaLiga EA Sports battle as FC Barcelona travels to face a formidable Real Sociedad side on Sunday, January 18, 2026. With both teams aiming to solidify their positions in the European spots, the contest promises tactical intrigue, especially following several high-profile changes in Hansi Flick’s starting XI for the Catalan giants.

Ahead of the 21:00 CET kickoff, the focus has heavily centred on Flick’s selection choices, particularly in attack and midfield, signaling a potential shift in Barcelona’s approach following recent performances.

Barcelona’s Surprising Attacking Configuration

Hansi Flick has opted for four changes from the side that featured in the Copa fixture, most notably opting for Ferran Torres to lead the line ahead of Robert Lewandowski. This decision suggests Flick is prioritizing different attributes—perhaps greater movement and associative play—in the central role against the Basque side.

The 'Formula Cornellà' in Midfield

The midfield pivot is where Flick has truly made his statement. The return of the influential duo Pedri and Frenkie de Jong is significant. They will be joined by Fermín López and the creative spark of Dani Olmo, forming what Spanish media are dubbing the ‘Formula Cornellà’—a highly technical, ball-dominant quintet alongside Lamine Yamal.

This configuration sees the team become potentially less direct on the left flank following the absence of Raphinha (who was not included in the squad due to injury). However, the depth of collective passing ability—De Jong, Pedri, Fermín, Olmo, and Yamal—theoretically allows Barça to be far more cohesive and associative.

The confirmed Barcelona starting XI is: Joan García; Koundé, Eric García, Cubarsí, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Fermín, Dani Olmo; Ferran Torres.

Real Sociedad’s Response Under Matarazzo

On the opposing bench, Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo has also rotated his squad, bringing back key personnel after recent rotation, including goalkeeper Remiro, defenders Jon Martín, midfielders Turrientes and Brais Méndez, and forward Guedes.

The Txuri-Urdin lineup presents a strong spine ready to challenge Barcelona’s technical midfield. Their starting XI features: Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Jon Martín, Sergio Gómez; Brais Méndez, Turrientes, Carlos Soler, Kubo; Oyarzabal and Guedes.

Pre-Match Odds and Expectations

Despite the tactical shifts from Flick, statistical analysis still leans towards the visitors. Data provided by OPTA suggests that Barcelona holds a 56.3% chance of securing the victory at Anoeta. Real Sociedad, conversely, is given a 21.5% probability, with the draw sitting at 22.1%.

Key Player Focus: Fermín and Lamine

Barcelona’s recent attacking output has been heavily reliant on their younger stars. Fermín López has been a revelation, reaching 10 assists for the season, second only to Lamine Yamal in goal contributions. Yamal himself recently hit double figures for goals this season, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most exciting forwards. Their combined output will be crucial in breaking down a disciplined Real Sociedad defence.

Defensive Stability and Squad Depth

Barcelona’s backline remains largely consistent, featuring Koundé, Eric García, and Cubarsí, protected by goalkeeper Joan García. The inclusion of Eric García sees him return to the central defence pairing.

The bench depth is also telling. Barcelona features elite options like Ter Stegen, Araújo, João Cancelo, and crucially, Robert Lewandowski, who will be waiting for his opportunity should Ferran Torres not convert his starting chance.

Real Sociedad also boasts a strong bench, including experienced figures like Odriozola and pacey options like Barrenetxea, indicating that Matarazzo has options to inject fresh energy should the game remain tight.

The Anoeta Factor

The fixture is historically challenging for Barcelona, who face a highly motivated home side known for their intensity. The arrival of the home team was accompanied by a traditional ‘tamborrada’ welcome, setting a passionate backdrop for the evening’s events. As the players take to the pitch—with Barcelona donning their vibrant orange third kit—the tactical battle between Flick’s fluid midfield and Matarazzo’s organized pressing unit will define the outcome of this critical LaLiga fixture.