UEFA Champions League 2019-20: Borussia Dortmund vs FC Barcelona combined XI

Right-back: Achraf Hakimi (Borussia Dortmund)

Hakimi has found his footing at Dortmund

Real Madrid flop Achraf Hakimi realized his potential upon joining Borussia Dortmund last year, as he had a fantastic campaign. He was not only solid defensively, but also showed tremendous drive and will to move forward and add an extra edge to the attack.

Mind you, he's already opened his account for the new season.

Centre-back: Gerard Pique (Barcelona)

Even at 32, Pique continues to go strong...

Now in his 10th season with the Catalan behemoths, Gerard Pique remains an indispensable member of the squad. He's had his fair share of shambolic outings already this season, but he's known to step up in big games.

The 32-year-old is also a potent threat in deadball situations, as his towering stature allows him to weigh in with crucial headers. However, with Paco Alcacer in great form, he'd have his hands full.

Centre-back: Manuel Akanji (Borussia Dortmund)

Akanji is at the heart of Dortmund's robust backline

Another unsung hero of Dortmund's renaissance last season, Akanji proved to be a valuable addition for the Yellow Submarine. He was a leader at the back, always peeling his side off the ground with his unflinching spirit.

Even the most menacing strikers in the league had a hard time getting past him. Akanji could well give the likes of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez a real run for their money.

Left-back: Jordi Alba (Barcelona)

Ever since Neymar left, Jordi Alba has been enjoying some of his most creative days - he has assisted a higher number of times (28) since the start of 2017-18 campaign than he did in the previous four combined. Alba's interventions would be crucial in unlocking Dortmund's stoic defense.

Edited by Musab Abid