Predicted Barcelona Line-up To Face Malaga In La Liga
Barcelona secured a 3-1 victory against Greek side Olympiacos CF in their recent UEFA Champions League encounter. Lucas Digne and Leo Messi were on the scoresheet for the Catalan side and it was a special night for Messi who took his goal tally to 100 in all European competitions with a sublime freekick. Barcelona will next play host to bottommost side Malaga CF at the Camp Nou.
Let’s take a look at how Ernesto Valverde may choose to field his squad:
Formation: 4-3-3
Marc Andre ter Stegen (GK)
The German keeper has been having a sensational season with the club and is one of the most promising goalkeepers in Europe.
Nelson Semedo (RB)
The Portuguese missed out on the Champions League encounter against Olympiacos and could return to the starting line-up against Malaga.
Javier Mascherano (CB)
Gerard Pique was sent off in the previous match against Olympiacos and is not in the best run of form. Valverde may choose to bench him for this game and prefer Mascherano instead.
Samuel Umtiti (CB)
Umtiti produced another marvellous display against Olympiacos and was solid in his game.
Lucas Digne (LB)
Jordi Alba missed out on the Champions League game as he had picked up a knock. It’s still not sure whether he will receive the medical greenlight ahead of thia league clash. However, Valverde may choose caution and play Lucas Digne instead, who scored a goal three days ago.
Sergio Busquets (DM)
Busquets had yet another impressive performance against Olympiacos and should play an important role in the next one too.
Ivan Rakitic (CM)
The Croatian could only appear as a sub in the Champions League match and he is going through a rough patch of his own. However, considering that Malaga are struggling, Valverde might start him.
Andre Gomes (CAM)
Gomes impressed in the attacking midfield position in the second half against Atletico last week and if Iniesta is given a rest this weekend, Gomes would be the prime candidate for the role.
Gerard Deulofeu (RW)
Deulofeu provided sparks of brilliance down the right wing against Olympiacos and played a major role leading to the first goal. Unfortunately, he had to be sacrificed after half time when Gerard Pique got sent off.
Lionel Messi (CF)
The last few weeks have been particularly good for Leo who seems to be on a rich scoring run. Expect him to grab a goal or two against Malaga at the Camp Nou.
Denis Suarez (LW)
Ernesto Valverde may choose to bench Luis Suarez for this match and play Denis on the left flank who has looked impressive every time he has played. He clearly deserves more game time.