MADRID, Jan. 14 (Xinhua) -- Spanish Super Cup champion FC Barcelona travels to face second-division leader Racing Santander on Thursday in the fourth round of the Copa del Rey.
Hansi Flick's side travels after completing the loan signing of Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo on Tuesday, and the versatile fullback could make his debut at El Sardinero.
Flick is likely to rotate his lineup, with Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres in contention to start. Ronald Araujo could also feature after a brief appearance at the end of Sunday's Super Cup final against Real Madrid suggested he is ready to return after taking a break in December.
Racing knocked Villarreal out of the third round to underline it cannot be taken lightly. Although it remains top of Liga Hypermotion, Jose Alberto's side has struggled for form in recent weeks, with three draws and a defeat to Zaragoza in its last four matches.
Racing has also been hit by injuries and departures. Striker Asier Villalibre has a hamstring injury, while the sale of Jose Arevalo to Stuttgart has weakened the attack.
Racing has scored 45 league goals but conceded 31 in 21 matches, the fourth-worst defensive record in the division. If it plays its usual attacking game, Barcelona will be confident of creating chances.
Jose Alberto's side also has a vital league game at home to Las Palmas on Sunday. While the cup tie offers a chance in the spotlight, the priority is a return to La Liga, and that could see the coach make several changes and give fringe players a chance.
In Thursday's other Copa del Rey tie, second-division Burgos hosts Valencia. Valencia travels with the team third from bottom of La Liga, in the relegation zone, and with coach Carlos Coberan under increasing pressure ahead of a weekend trip to Getafe.
Burgos knocked Getafe out in the last round. Unless Valencia is fully focused, there is a chance of another upset in the bitterly cold El Plantio stadium. ■
