Barcelona had to face stern competition from Tottenham Hotspur at Nou Camp as the north London side scraped out a 1-1 draw against the Catalan giants to secure a place in the last 16 of the Champions League. Ernesto Valverde went in with a young side in the previous match, and he would look to start his regular first-team players when they take on Levante in their next encounter in the La Liga.
The Blaugrana are currently at the top of the La Liga table and are closely followed by Sevilla, a team which is just three points behind them. So the next fixture is going to be a very crucial one for Barcelona as they would look to avoid any slip-ups against their opponents. Levante have already been involved in a giant-killing act earlier this season by defeating Real Madrid.
Team News
While Sergi Roberto is back in training and would be assessed ahead of the next match, the likes of Samuel Umtiti, Rafinha and Malcom will not play any part for the reigning La Liga champions in this crucial encounter.
Goalkeeper
Marc Andre Ter Stegen will return to his position in goal after being rested against Tottenham Hotspur.
Defence
Nelson Semedo will once again start in the right-hand side in Sergi Roberto’s absence while Jordi Alba would return to the starting eleven after receiving a well-deserved rest in the Champions League match. The duo of Clement Lenglet and Gerard Pique will guard the heart of the backline for the Blaugrana.
Midfield
Ivan Rakitic and Arthur will start in the midfield and would be accompanied by Sergio Busquets, who came on as a second-half substitute against Spurs.
Attack
Lionel Messi came on as a substitute against Tottenham but was unable to inspire his side to a victory. He will start on the right-hand side as the wide attacker in the match against Levante. Philippe Coutinho will put in his shift from the left as Luis Suarez, who was rested against Spurs, would lead the attack for the La Liga holders.
Predicted Formation: 4-3-3
