It is time for FC Barcelona to take on their second test in La Liga this season at home. They have already bested the likes of Valencia and Rayo Vallecano away from home, and also managed to defeat Athletic Club at Montjuic Stadium. Now, however, Barcelona make their return once more to their home ground to face Real Valladolid.
As it stands, the Catalan giants are at the top of the La Liga table with nine points won out of a possible nine. With three wins already secured, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona will look to add a fourth to the bag in front of their home supporters and field a strong eleven before the international break arrives.
Here is how FC Barcelona could line up against Real Valladolid.
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen
While the German goalkeeper may still not have a clean sheet this season and a lot of criticism has been sent his way, he remains Barça’s best option right now and he will be the one to have Hansi Flick’s faith backing him up to improve.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
The Frenchman remains consistent and there is no doubt that he is one of the players that Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has locked in when it comes to the starting eleven. Despite naturally being a central defender, his adaptation to the right flank of the defense is more than commendable.
Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi
The young Spanish defender continues to showcase exactly why he remains a guaranteed starter in this Barcelona team. His ball-playing skills are unquestionable and his defensive output is also worth commending.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
Alongside the young Pau Cubarsi, for as long as Ronald Araujo remains injured, Inigo Martinez stands as the obvious defensive partner. A veteran of La Liga, Martinez knows when to do the dirty work and when to showcase his own technical abilities as well.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
After getting plenty of rest in the last game with Gerard Martin replacing him in the starting eleven, Alejandro Balde will be hoping that he can be a viable threat for Barcelona in this game offensively and also help the team sort themselves out at the back.
CDM: Marc Casado
With Marc Bernal now out injured, it is imperative that Hansi Flick manages to find a capable replacement for the youngster. Fortunately, Marc Casado is a dependable option and he will likely get the nod to start this game alongside some fellow Spaniards.
CDM: Pedri
The magician that is Pedri continues to showcase his magic in the most important moments. His goals, passes, and movement are also crucial elements that make this Barcelona team work well when they do, and his presence in the team is now undeniably important.
RAM: Lamine Yamal
Few words can truly describe just how integral Lamine Yamal is to this Barcelona team and his place in the starting eleven is more or less guaranteed for this match. With the ability to change the tide of any game at a moment’s notice, Yamal could be a game-changer for Flick’s team in this match.
CAM: Dani Olmo
Following a magical debut for Dani Olmo, it is safe to assume that Hansi Flick will be eager to see more of him. The Euro-winning Spanish star scored a goal in his last game and he will be hoping to add to that tally knowing that he is fully capable of doing so by getting his first start for Barcelona.
LAM: Raphinha
Another player who thrived in the last game under Hansi Flick’s orders, his recent performances make him out to be a guarantee for the German tactician every time Barcelona plays these days.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Unfortunate not to score a goal in his last game, but Robert Lewandowski has been having a great start to the season so far. The Polish ace remains among the league’s best scorers and he seems to have found a rejuvenated version of himself under his former coach.
