Barcelona SC to Rotate Squad Ahead of Crucial Libertadores Clash

Barcelona Sporting Club is moving on from its Clásico del Astillero victory and shifting focus to Friday’s LigaPro fixture against Deportivo Cuenca at the Estadio Monumental. With a decisive Copa Libertadores match on the horizon, interim coach Segundo Castillo is preparing a heavily rotated lineup, according to Olé.

At least six changes are expected, driven by both physical demands and tactical considerations. In goal, Ignacio De Arruabarrena will replace José Contreras, who suffered a serious injury. Aníbal Chalá is likely to start over Mario Pineida in defense, while Jesús Trindade, Joaquín Valiente, and Gabriel Cortez will step in for Souza, Byron Castillo, and Oyola in midfield.

Up front, Felipe Caicedo is sidelined due to muscle discomfort, paving the way for Janner Corozo’s return to the starting eleven alongside Octavio Rivero.

The likely starting lineup for the Ídolo includes: De Arruabarrena; Carabalí, Arreaga, Vallecilla, Chalá; Arroyo, Trindade, Valiente, Cortez; Corozo, and Rivero.