FC Barcelona travel to Andalusia to face off against 19th-placed Almeria in what is a crucial moment for the Catalan outfit. A win is the only circumstance that would leave the Blaugrana feeling happy come the end of the game.
An away game that could take FC Barcelona 10 points clear at the top, here is how they could potentially line up:
Barcelona vs Almeria: Potential Line-up
Goalkeeper: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Might have been able to do a bit better in both goals conceded against Manchester United, but nonetheless also made some heroic saves to continue showcasing his revitalized form.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
According to reports, Ronald Araujo may be rested in this game, leaving behind much more responsibility upon the shoulders of Jules Kounde. Thankfully, the Frenchman possesses enough quality to manage a lot by himself as well.
Centre-back: Eric Garcia
Expected to start according to numerous reports, the young Spaniard is slowly but surely gaining more and more minutes under Xavi. The hope remains that he can continue his progression in an upwards trajectory for the team.
Centre-back: Andreas Christensen
The “Danish Maldini”, as he so popularly is called by fans, will be expected to start alongside Garcia in what should be a back 2 that certainly possesses top-level composure on the ball and commendable vision to accompany it.
Left-back: Jordi Alba
Rested against Manchester United in favor of an in-form Balde, it seems likely that the veteran Spaniard will indeed start this game. In solid form himself, the old guard will surely be capable enough of causing Almeria problems.
CDM: Sergio Busquets
Now completely fit and returning from injury recently, the Barcelona captain should slot right back into his midfield pivot role. The Spaniard’s positioning and passing range was surely missed for as long as he was away.
CM: Frenkie De Jong
The Dutchman was arguably one of the only players that could indefinitely keep his head up following that clash against Manchester United, his dribbles and passes were key in opening up multiple spaces for the Catalans. Here’s to hoping for more of the same.
CM: Gavi
Suspended for the game against Manchester United, the youngster will now finally be back in a squad that surely missed his tenacity and extreme levels of intensity. His return could be key to uplifting the spirits of those around him.
Right-winger: Raphinha
The Brazilian has been deputizing that right flank of the attacking trident rather well in the absence of Xavi’s preferred winger in Ousmane Dembele. Now, as the return of the Frenchman draws near, Raphinha will need to maintain and even up the tempo when it comes to his performances to make a case for himself.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
The sole goal scorer in the second leg against Manchester United, the Pole will indefinitely start this game against Almeria to continue his goal-scoring run, with 25 goals already scored this season. Barcelona’s leading top scorer, the forward will be aiming for the Pichichi award come the end of the season.
Left-winger: Ferran Torres
Did not start against Manchester United despite some reports suggesting he would, it seems rather likely that he starts this game against Almeria instead. Given his recent resurgence of fine form, the Spanish winger could have a lot to offer this Barcelona side in this game.
Barcelona vs Almeria: Expected Lineup
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Ter Stegen
Defenders: Alba, Christensen, Garcia, Kounde
Midfielders: Gavi, Busquets, De Jong
Forwards: Torres, Lewandowski, Raphinha
