FC Barcelona will take on Valencia at the Mestalla not too long from now. The Catalan giants are in desperate search for a victory, and they will do whatever it takes to get it against Valencia. However, the match will undoubtedly be a tense affair for Xavi and Barcelona to overcome.
Knowing how complicated La Liga can become if Barcelona fails to win against Valencia, Xavi will look to field a strong eleven. With the squad list already released, the players that will be available at Xavi’s disposal are already known as well.
Here is how Barcelona could line up against Valencia.
Expected Lineup:
Goalkeeper: Inaki Pena
The Spaniard will once again return to the starting eleven in light of Marc Andre Ter Stegen still being injured. While both his last two outings saw Barça concede multiple goals, he will be hoping to keep Valencia as far away from the Barcelona goal as possible.
Right-back: Joao Cancelo
After a few adventurous appearances on the left flank, Xavi could have Joao Cancelo return as a right-back. With the improvement seen in Alejandro Balde’s previous performance, Cancelo would naturally start as a right-back to allow the youngster a chance to reincorporate himself.
Centre-back: Andreas Christensen
Despite his best efforts against Royal Antwerp, Andreas Christensen could not keep the Belgians away from the Barcelona goal. However, he continues to be a reliable defender for Xavi Hernandez. For this consistency, he will likely return to the starting eleven against Valencia as well.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
Rested against Antwerp due to a risk of suspension, Ronald Araujo will likely return to the starting eleven against Valencia. A true leader within the team, the Uruguayan’s presence makes a world of difference for Barcelona.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Much more energetic and dynamic in his last appearance compared to his other displays this season. Alejandro Balde, depending on Xavi’s faith in him, could finally return to the starting eleven for two games in a row.
CDM: Ilkay Gundogan
The German remains one of the most consistent performers for Barcelona this season. His experience, versatility, and competitive nature all help both him and Barcelona play well collectively.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
After being sourly missed against Royal Antwerp, Frenkie De Jong returns to the team. He had a fever previously, because of which he had to be left out of the trip to Belgium. However, he has now recovered and will likely start for Barcelona at the Mestalla.
CM: Pedri
Few words can describe Pedri at his best. The youngster is one of the fundamental keys in helping Xavi’s Barcelona play at their best. Utilizing him to the best of his capabilities will undoubtedly make Barcelona a much stronger rival to compete against.
Right-winger: Raphinha
The Brazilian was benched last time around to allow Lamine Yamal to take over for a game. While the young Spaniard delivered and played a great game, Raphinha will likely now get his own chance against Valencia. However, he will need to earn his way back into being an undisputed starter.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Despite arguably being at the lowest point of his career in terms of being clinical, Robert Lewandowski still remains undisputed at Barcelona. His starting position looks to be safe for now, unless Xavi Hernandez decides to go against the normality of things.
Left-winger: Joao Felix
The Portuguese forward can be guilty of becoming sluggish at times, but he still remains a great creative outlet for Barcelona. His ability to link up with his teammates as well as being a goal threat himself makes him a lethal player for Xavi to continue depending on.
