Xavi names strong squad for Barcelona's clash with Intercity

The Catalan outfit are the most successful side in the history of the competition, having lifted the trophy on 31 occasions, with their last triumph coming in 2020-21.

Xavi had been expected to rest a number of first-team players for the last-32 clash with Intercity, who play their league football in Spain's third tier.

However, aside from Robert Lewandowski and Pedri, Barcelona have a full squad for the cup fixture.

"He (Lewandowski) stays out because he is carrying a lot of load and because we are confident that he can continue with the precautionary measure and play against Atlético Madrid. So, rest for him and Pedri," Xavi told reporters.

Xavi also confirmed during his pre-match press conference that he would be making changes from the 1-1 draw with Espanyol in La Liga on December 31, with Eric Garcia and Ronald Araujo in line to feature.

"The idea is to rotate and give minutes to players who haven't played for a long time, such as Eric and Araujo," he said.

"He (Araujo) is one hundred per cent. He will start tomorrow and he will help us with his leadership, with his aggressiveness."

Pablo Torre is also in line to represent Barcelona for just the fourth time during the 2022-23 campaign.

"He is a first-team player and will have important minutes tomorrow. When he doesn't play, he knows that he can drop down to the reserve team," said the manager.

Xavi also confirmed during his press conference that Gavi would be available despite some concerns over his fitness.

"Gavi is fine, he had a calf bruise, he couldn't run and asked to be replaced, but he is pure passion and is available," added the 42-year-old.

Barcelona are entering a busy run of matches that will see them take on Atletico Madrid in the league on January 8 before facing Real Betis in the semi-finals of the Spanish Super Cup three days later.

Barcelona squad vs. Intercity:

Ter Stegen, Pena, Tenas; Bellerin, Araujo, Christensen, Alonso, Alba, Kounde, Garcia, Balde; Busquets, Kessie, Roberto, F de Jong, Gavi, Torre; Dembele, Fati, F Torres, Memphis, Raphinha