The Catalan giants continue their pursuit of this season’s La Liga title with an upcoming clash against 15th-placed Getafe in the league on Sunday.
Barca vs Getafe: Match Details
Date: Sunday, 22nd January 2023
Competition: La Liga Santander
Matchday: 17
Venue: Spotify Camp Nou
Time: 06:30 pm Central European Time
Barca vs Getafe: Match Overview
As the La Liga season comes into touching distance of its halfway point, Barca are amongst the many hoping to acquire as many points as possible to continue the latter half of the season. Sitting atop of La Liga following their 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid in their previous outing in the league.
Boasting a formidable 13 wins, 2 draws, and a singular loss from their first 16 league matches thus far. Barcelona has accumulated a total of 41 points from a possible total of 48, showcasing an impressive tally.
On the other hand, competitors Getafe have not been as successful in their voyage in La Liga this season. Sitting at a worrying point in their campaign, they currently sit at 15th in the league. Having played 17 games already, their point tally leaves much to be desired, as they have managed just 4 wins out of their last 17 games, currently possessing a mere 17 points to their name.
In terms of both teams and their respective forms, the contrast could not be any more glaring. While La Blaugrana come into this game in fine form, having 4 wins and 1 draw in their last 5 La Liga games, Getafe find themselves in deep waters in comparison. Having lost thrice and having drawn once in the last 5 games, they are indeed looking for a positive turnaround.
Barca vs Getafe: Potential Line-up
Goalkeeper: Marc Andre Ter-Stegen
Barcelona’s undisputed starter between the sticks, it would be expected to see Ter Stegen start. The German International has thus far had an incredible campaign and will be hoping to extend his fine form.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Pacey, gaining intelligence and maturity, and a constant demon on the left flank. Alejandro Balde has arguably become Xavi’s starting left-back at this point in the season and for very good reason.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
The pillar and wall of the Catalan defense, the Uruguayan will be sure to start. Strong, quick and a leader at the back, Araujo’s presence is vital. Barcelona begin to dominate the game beyond a pure footballing sense when Araujo is involved.
Centre-back: Andreas Christensen
The underrated signing of the season perhaps, the Danish defender has showcased a lot of quality. Intelligent as well as adaptable, his addition has been nothing short of a masterstroke by Alemany and co.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
The Frenchman’s ability to play as a solid fullback is a testimony to his immense footballing talents. Kounde is both a defensive juggernaut as well as a creative hub, Jules Kounde breathes new life into this Catalan outfit.
CDM: Frenkie De Jong
Frenkie De Jong played superbly well in the Spanish Supercup final and will be hoping to continue that. His intricate passing and dribbling pave the way for glaring openings for Barca’s attackers from time to time.
CM: Pedri
The previous Golden Boy, Pedri is a massive blessing for the Blaugrana. His immense maturity despite his tender age makes him a paradox of a youngster, coupled with his immense footballing talent.
CM: Gavi
Man of the match in the Supercup final, and a game-changer against Ceuta, Gavi is in fine form. Aggressive, coupled with tenacity and talent, Gavi is a key component in this Barcelona outfit.
Left-winger: Ousmane Dembele
Dembele is left to take charge on the left as Fati remains occupied in the middle, and Raphinha remains ineffective on the left. Ousmane Dembele is willing to take charge aggressively, an X-factor that can click spontaneously for the Catalans.
Centre-forward: Ansu Fati
Given that both Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski are suspended for this game, Ansu Fati is called upon. The youngster gets to take his own shot at recapturing his place within the Barcelona starting eleven as a striker for the time being.
Right-winger: Raphinha
With Dembele preoccupied on the left-hand side of the wings, this allows Raphinha to have the leverage and freedom to operate as the primary right winger for the team against Getafe. Given his recent improved performances, he may just have a lot to offer.
Barca vs Getafe: Expected Line-up
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Ter Stegen
Defenders: Balde, Christensen, Araujo, Kounde
Midfielders: Pedri, De Jong, Gavi
Forwards: Dembele, Fati, Raphinha
