Barcelona will look to recover from their catastrophic exit from the UEFA Champions League when they play hosts to Getafe on Sunday. The Spanish giants had already secured the league title last month. But, they are unlikely to receive a warm welcome after giving away a 3-0 aggregate lead against Liverpool in midweek.
Manager Ernesto Valverde is likely to stick to his 4-3-3 formation, despite the team making a host of errors in the last game. He could, however, rest a few of his regular starters as they look to recover from their defeat to Liverpool.
4-3-3 Barcelona lineup vs Getafe
Defence
Marc Andre ter Stegen is expected to retain his place in between the sticks. The German international will start over Jasper Cillessen, who received his first La Liga start of the season in the defeat to Celta Vigo last weekend.
Nelson Semedo, however, could replace Sergi Roberto in the right-back slot. The Portuguese will offer more pace and dynamism on the flanks.
Thomas Vermaelen is not included in the team, meaning Jordi Alba will retain his role at left-back. The Spaniard will be keen to put in an impressive defensive display after a disastrous showing in midweek.
Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet are both likely to retain their place at the heart of Barcelona’s backline. They will need to be mentally prepared after a dismal performance against Liverpool in midweek.
Midfield
We could expect a host changes being made in midfield by Valverde this weekend. But, Sergio Busquets is likely to retain his role as the holding midfielder.
The Spaniard will partner Ivan Rakitic and youngster Carles Alena. These two players will operate in a slightly advanced midfield position, however. Alena, in particular, will have an excellent opportunity to shine as we near the business end of the campaign.
Attack
With Ousmane Dembele out injured, Malcom could be given a rare start in the right-wing slot. The Brazilian attacker will swap Lionel Messi, who will shift into the number nine role.
Philipe Coutinho will occupy the opposite flank. The Brazilian will have a point to prove this weekend, after his disastrous return to Anfield on Tuesday.
And finally, the Barcelona attack will be led by Messi. The Argentine international will operate as a false-nine, replacing Suarez, who has been ruled out for the rest of the season with an ankle injury.
