Barcelona travels to San Sebastian this weekend as they take on 5th placed Real Sociedad on Sunday at the Anoeta Stadium.
The Catalans, trailing leaders Real Madrid by four points, currently sit second in the league and with the El Clasico coming up after this fixture, will be hoping to build some steam ahead of the mega clash.
They will be coming on the back of an impressive 2-0 win against Celtic in the Champions League after their previous La Liga fixture ended in a draw against Malaga.
With Andres Iniesta still on the sidelines and Lionel Messi looking in ominous form, we take a look at the expected line-up Luis Enrique will send out on Sunday:
Formation: 4-3-3
GK – Marc-Andre Ter Stegen
The German had a good game against Celtic and has been preferred over Jasper Cillesen till now by the manager Luis Enrique and it will not change on Sunday.
RB – Sergi Roberto
The Spaniard has fitted well into the makeshift right-back role and has been a constant threat on the right side for Barca. Had a decent outing at Celtic Park. With no real challenger for his position, he will feature at Anoeta.
CB – Gerard Pique
Pique looked impressive against Celtic in his second appearance post-injury, as he kept out Dembele with relative ease. With the El Clasico up ahead, his form will be important.
CB – Javier Mascherano
Pique will be partnered by Mascherano in the continued absence of the injured Samuel Umtiti. Has looked scratchy at times, but with his experience, never count him out.
LB – Jordi Alba
Barca’s first-choice left-back is back from injury and after having played from the start against Celtic, expect him to start against Sociedad too.
DM – Sergio Busquets
One of the best players in his position. Provides excellent cover to his defence and can start the attack from deep with his crisp passing. Sure starter.
CM – Ivan Rakitic
In Andres Iniesta’s absence, the Blaugrana will look up to the Croatian for the spark of creativity from midfield.
CM – Arda Turan
Andre Gomes was selected ahead of Turan in the CL fixture, but the Portuguese put in an underwhelming display. So, expect the former Atletico star, who has 2 goals and 3 assists so far this season, to play alongside Rakitic.
RW – Lionel Messi
Missed the previous Liga game against Malaga due to illness. But was back with a bang, grabbing a double against Celtic. Sociedad defence will have their work cut out against the little magician.
LW – Neymar
Had an off day against Celtic, but expect the Brazilian to bounce back and add to his tally of 4 goals and 4 assists in the Liga this season.
ST – Luis Suarez
Another player who did not feature in the drawn game against Malaga, due to a suspension. Had a decent outing at Celtic Park and will definitely start on Sunday.