FC Barcelona return to La Liga action as they continue to fight for the league and other objectives. However, when it comes to their title aspirations, they received a huge blow from Granada last time out. As such, Barcelona can no longer afford to drop any more points as it could spell the end for any La Liga hopes.
Their next opponents are Celta Vigo, and Barcelona will be taking them on away from home. Scheduled to take place at Balaidos, the team from Vigo will be welcoming the team from Barcelona. La Blaugrana currently sit at third place in the league, while Celta themselves currently sit in 17th place.
Here is how FC Barcelona could line up against their opponents.
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen
Despite his return from injury not having been the smoothest, the German goalkeeper and Barça captain still brings a lot of safety to the team. His exceptional ball playing, coupled with his ability to pull out wonder saves out of nowhere, will both be crucial for Barcelona.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
The Frenchman continues to be an excellent emergency option at the right-back position. His versatility allows Xavi’s team to have a dependable defensive outlet on the flank who is equally capable of using his skills to create offensive danger and chances as well.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
Rested against Granada in the last game, Ronald Araujo should now be back in the team. The Uruguayan defender, despite some shaky performances recently, remains Barça’s most important guardian. Barcelona seem to feel much more confident when they have their Uruguayan juggernaut leading the defense.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
With the veteran Spanish defender now fit and available, he should be back to starting regularly. This would also allow Pau Cubarsi to finally have some rest, as he would be replaced by a veteran with exceptional ball-playing abilities as well.
Left-back: Joao Cancelo
Given that both Marcos Alonso and Alejandro Balde still remain injured, Joao Cancelo has been tasked with stepping up in their place. The Portuguese fullback is easily one of the most technically gifted players in his position, and his creativity knows no bounds at times and gives Barcelona a lot out of nothing on several occasions.
CDM: Frenkie De Jong
The Dutch midfielder is not exactly the best solution as a pivot, but he is what Barcelona have. La Blaugrana seem to always rely on him to helm the position unless experimental measures are taken, and his exceptional ball progression skills often help the team create some great chances.
CM: Ilkay Gundogan
As effective as always, Ilkay Gundogan remains a lethal weapon in the Barcelona midfield. His ability to pop up in dangerous positions both for creating and for finishing is quite the deadly asset. At the moment, even his exceptional statistics speak for themselves.
CM: Pedri
Barça’s very own young wonderkid continues to dazzle and amaze. However, it has definitely taken time for him to readjust back to a proper playing schedule. Given the recovery process he has been through, it only makes sense to be cautious with his development.
Right-winger: Lamine Yamal
As Raphinha continues to gradually return to full fitness, Lamine Yamal will likely continue starting for Barcelona. The young 16-year-old sensation is undoubtedly playing a lot more than he should, but his skills and maturity for his age remain unparalleled.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
The Polish striker seems to finally have found his shooting boots again. Now scoring on a much more regular and consistent basis, Barcelona need this version of Lewandowski to continue shining and converting the chances that are sent his way.
Left-winger: Vitor Roque
After finally getting through a questionable suspension, Vitor Roque is available for Xavi. The Barcelona head coach would likely not want this opportunity to get away unused, so the Brazilian forward may be given a chance to start from the beginning, especially considering his solid goal-scoring form recently.