Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will be hoping to make his first start for Barcelona on Thursday when the Blaugrana face Napoli in the Europa League knockout round play-off.

This will be Barcelona’s first time ever playing in the competition following their disappointing Champions League campaign which saw them finish third in a group alongside Bayern Munich, Benfica and Dynamo Kyiv.

Xavi replaced Ronald Koeman earlier this season and recognised the need for an improved forward line which is what led to the acquisitions of Aubameyang, Adama Traore and Ferran Torres in the January transfer window.

FOOTBALLTRANSFERS’ MOST VALUABLE PLAYERS IN THE WORLD

Aubemeyang has already featured twice for Barca but both appearances have came off the bench, so he is in line for a first start versus Napoli.

Ronald Araujo, Samuel Umtiti, Ansu Fati, Sergi Roberto Alejandro Balde and Clement Lenglet will all miss out, while there are still some concerns over the fitness of Memphis Depay.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen will start in goal behind a back four of Sergino Dest, Gerard Pique, Eric Garcia and Jordi Alba.

Dani Alves is unavailable after not being selected in the Europe League squad.

The midfield three of Sergio Busquets, Frenkie de Jong and Pedri will likely continue.

Youngster Gavi might drop out of the forward line to accommodate Aubameyang, with Traore and Torres supporting from the wings.

Predicted Barcelona XI versus Napoli