Barcelona are currently in seventh heaven in the Spanish La Liga, eyeing a much-awaited redemption after a disappointing campaign in the last term. They have won all their seven matches in the La Liga so far showing absolute dominance over the opponents, making it a brilliant start to the season.
They, however, are set to face a stern test in their next match against Atletico Madrid, who will look to ruin the party for the Blaugrana in their own backyard. Los Colchoneros are currently stranded on the fourth position in the league table and will hope for a much-needed win to go up the ladder.
That might look pretty unlikely, especially with the kind of form the Catalan giants are currently in. They have already scored 23 goals and have conceded only two to cement their place on the top berth, hoping to topple the current champions and their arch-rivals Real Madrid and clinch the coveted title once again.
Here is how Barcelona might line up against Simeone’s men:
Defence-
Barcelona have dished out diligent performances in the La Liga so far this season, with their backline proving to be one of the best in Europe. They have conceded only two goals so far this season, restricting their opponents from getting into the final third.
With no significant injuries to their regular back four, they are set to deploy Sergi Roberto and Jordi Alba on both sides and Samuel Umtiti and Gerard Pique at the centre of the backline, safeguarding their goal from the Atletico Madrid forwards, while Marc Andre Ter Stegen will be deployed beneath the crossbars.
Midfield-
The Blaugrana midfield has been one of the best in Europe over a prolonged period of time. With players like Sergio Busquets and Andreas Iniesta playing in their midfield, Atletico Madrid are always under pressure in the middle of the park.
They will be aptly supported by the Brazilian ace Paulinho, who has performed exceedingly well after his shock move from the Chinese Super League.
Attack-
With Lionel Messi at the helm of their attack, it has been a great season for the Catalan club so far. The Argentine ace is soaring high with 11 goals already and will look to add to his tally when they take on Atletico. In the absence of Ousmane Dembele, the Argentine skipper is set to be supported by Dennis Suarez and Luis Suarez in attack
Predicted lineup-
Ter Stegen, Roberto, Pique, Umtiti, Alba, Busquets, Paulinho, Iniesta, D.Suarez, L.Suarez, Messi.
