Dembele is rested, and d Raphinha takes his place in a 4-3-3 formation: how could barcelona line up against celta vigo?
Following a disappointing midweek champions league defeat to inter, barcelona will look to refocus on la liga as they face a tricky opponent in celta vigo in round eight.
After real madrid edged getafe on saturday night, barcelona must win to reclaim first place, albeit on goal difference, heading into the most important el clasico of the season the following weekend.
Celta vigo's form has been erratic recently, with the galicians losing two of their last three games but winning the last game after the international break against real betis.
The catalans face a difficult test against iago aspas and company, so who will they field to secure the three points? Here
Defence
Marc andre ter stegen will keep his place in goal, hoping to add to his tally of six clean sheets so far this season, as the only sure starter in a very fragile backline hampered by multiple injuries.
Gerard pique could make his third league appearance of the season in central defense, alongside eric garcia, who has put in some good performances every time he has played.
Alejandro balde, who played right back in the 1-0 win over mallorca, will almost certainly return to the starting lineup in his preferred position. His explosiveness could be crucial in breaking down the celta defense.
Sergi roberto will fill in at right back in the absence of hector bellerin, ronald araujo, and jules kounde.
Midfield
With every point crucial in this battle for first place with real madrid, xavi could take few chances with his midfield and bring in the big guns.
With his exceptional ability, pedri will be deployed once more to try to keep the game ticking, with frienkie de young as the other central midfielder to drive at celta vigo.
After about two weeks on the sidelines due to a knock he received while on international duty with the oranje, the dutchman officially received the medical green light yesterday.
Sergio busquets is expected to anchor the midfield, with his experience and calm presence hopefully shining through to neutralize celta's midfield of fran beltran alongside gabriel veiga or renato tapia.
Attack
Following his strong performance against mallorca, ansu fati could return to the starting lineup to continue his road to full fitness.
Ousmane dembele's much-needed rest could then pave the way for raphinha to start on the right flank. Xavi has used him on the left on several occasions, but not with great success. The brazilian will be eager to demonstrate his abilities on his preferred side.
Leading the charge, of course, will be the mercurial robert lewandowski, who will be looking to extend his lead in the pichichi race and become the first player in la liga this season to reach double figures in goals.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0