{
  "id": 6408695,
  "title": "Rodri, Fermin start in a 4-3-3: How Barcelona can line up against Feyenoord",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/09/rodri-fermin-start-in-a-4-3-3-how-barcelona-can-line-up-against",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-09T10:35:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/rodri-fermin-start-4-3-103500490.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "FC Barcelona are set to face Feyenoord in their first UEFA Champions League match of the season, with the Blaugrana opting for a 4-3-3 formation. This formation allows Rodri and Fermin to start in central midfield, with Pedri joining them to form the backbone of the team. In defense, Joan Garcia is expected to continue his impressive form as the first-choice goalkeeper, while Jules Kounde is likely to start at right-back, despite Eric Garcia's suspension. On the left side of defense, Espart will partner Alejandro Balde and Cancelo, while Gerard Martin and Pau Cubarsi will start at center-back. Midfield sees the continued partnership of Rodri, Pedri, and Fermin, with Rodri and Pedri at the heart of the three-man midfield unit. In attack, Raphinha will continue to play in a central role, while Lamine Yamal and Anthony Gordon will operate on the flanks to provide a goal threat and creative outlet for the home team. Feyenoord, who have also made a strong start to their season, will be facing a formidable challenge against Barcelona's current form.",
  "summary": "FC Barcelona begin their UEFA Champions League campaign later tonight as they take on Feyenoord in their first match of the league phase at the Spotify Camp Nou.The Blaugrana have made a perfect start...",
  "key_points": [
    "Barcelona will start the match in a 4-3-3 formation.",
    "Rodri and Fermin will start in central midfield.",
    "Joan Garcia is expected to be the first-choice goalkeeper."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Barcelona's switch to a 4-3-3 formation allows Rodri and Fermin to start in central midfield, strengthening the team's backbone alongside Pedri.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}