Barcelona vs Dortmund Lineups: Raphinha, Inigo Martinez Return for Champions League Quarter-Final

Barca Make Key Changes With Raphinha and Inigo Martinez Back in the XI, While Dortmund Face Injury Setbacks Ahead of Montjuic Showdown.

Barcelona have recalled winger Raphinha and centre-back Inigo Martnez to the starting XI. The coach has recalled them for their UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday. The duo were rested during their recent league action but Hansi Flick has recalled them to build momentum at home in this leg.

Raphinha was rested following the international break but has impressed in training. Flick said, “After the break, we have given him a little time to recover, but in training he is fantastic. He is very dynamic and ready for tomorrow’s game.” The Brazilian joins Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski in a sharp attacking trio.

🚨 BARÇA XI 🚨#BarçaBVB @ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/u7Jg11Tq4R
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 9, 2025

Inigo Martínez, who was also sidelined during the Betis draw due to muscular discomfort has been named to start the match. With Ronald Araujo suspended and Barcelona already thin in defence, Martinez in the back will help a lot. The experienced defender, however, is walking a suspension tightrope. One more booking could potentially rule him out of the second leg.

Injuries, Suspensions Influence Both Camps

Barcelona remain without Dani Olmo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen due to injuries. Wojciech Szczesny continues in goal, while Alejandro Balde, Pau Cubarsi, and Jules Kounde complete the defensive unit with Martinez. Frenkie de Jong and Pedri are in-charge of the engine room with Fermin Lopez a little up the field working as a bridge.

Also Read: Where To Watch FC Barcelona vs. Borrusia Dortmund Today? Champions League Quarter-Final Fixture, TV Channel, Live Streaming, and More

Borussia Dortmund, meanwhile, face more significant absences. Star defender Nico Schlotterbeck is out for the season with a knee injury, and Marcel Sabitzer also remains sidelined. Pascal Grob misses out through suspension, forcing coach Niko Kovac to reshuffle.

The visitors are lining up with Gregor Kobel in goal. Waldemar Anton, Julian Ryerson, and Benzebaini are forming the back three. Emre Can, Brandt, Chukwuemeka, and Felix Nmecha are partnering in midfield. Whereas, Karim Adeyemi and Gittens are supporting striker Serhou Guirassy in the final third.

Also Read: Where To Watch PSG vs. Aston Villa Today? Champions League Quarter-Final Fixture, TV Channel, Live Streaming, and More

As Barcelona aim to reach their first Champions League semi-final since 2019, the return of key starters and home advantage could be decisive. Dortmund, despite their injury woes, remain a dangerous side with a solid recent away record in European knockouts. The battle at Montjuic is set for fireworks.

Barcelona vs Dortmund Lineups:

Barcelona Starting XI: Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Fermin, Raphinha; Lewandowski

Borussia Dortmund Starting XI: Kobel; Ryerson, Anton, Bensebaini; Can, Nmecha, Chukwuemeka, Brandt; Adeyemi, Guirassy, Gittens

Barcelona

Borussia Dortmund

Champions League

Dortmund

Inigo Martinez

Raphinha

UCL 2024-25

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.