Barcelona resume their Laliga campaign on Sunday when they take on Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou. After a busy January transfer window, the Catalans have a point to prove as they look to slowly push upwards in the league table. They are currently fifth in the table, but a win could potentially help them enter the top four, overtaking their weekend opponent.
Predicted Barcelona Lineup Vs Atletico Madrid
Defence
Barcelona are missing a few key players in the defensive unit, in the form of Clement Lenglet, Samuel Umtiti and Eric Garcia. It leaves Xavi with no option but to persist with the preferred central defensive duo of Ronald Araujo and the highly experienced Gerard Pique.
Speaking of experience, Dani Alves should get the nod ahead of Oscar Mingueza and Sergino Dest at right-back, despite playing for Brazil during the international break. The veteran defender should add some much-needed solidity on the right hand of the Barcelona backline.
As for the opposite flank, the onus will be on Jordi Alba to cause danger to the opposition defence with his marauding runs out wide. The left-back should also play a vital role in the build-up, whereas Marc-Andre ter Stegen remains a guaranteed starter in between the sticks this weekend.
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Midfield
In midfield, Sergio Busquets is likely to occupy the number six slot. The Spaniard’s experience and composure could go a long way in helping Barcelona evade Atletico’s second line of press.
Moving forward, Frenkie de Jong and Pedri remain favourite to accompany Busquets in the three-man Barcelona midfield. The two are set to operate in a more advanced role, as they look to offer the creative essence in the middle of the park. Gavi and Nico are the two dynamic alternatives available if required.
Attack
As for the attack, Ousmane Dembele could be set for a controversial start. He is set to receive a cold welcome by the Barcelona crowd, but with Memphis Depay and Ansu Fati sidelined, Xavi doesn’t have many options at his disposal.
Dembele should operate at right-wing, accompanied by two new signings in Ferran Torres and Piere-Emerick Aubameyang. It will be interesting to see how Aubameyang partners with Dembele, having enjoyed immense success during their previous endeavour together at Borussia Dortmund.
