Despite an early lead against Manchester United at Old Trafford, Barcelona went through another humiliation in Europe as they conceded twice in the second half to get eliminated from Europa League. The focus must now shift entirely on reclaiming the La Liga crown and the gaffer Xavi Hernandez must demand a reaction against minnows Almeria on Sunday evening.
Barcelona clinched a routine 2-0 win when these two sides locked horns at Camp Nou in the reverse fixture. This should be a stroll in the park for the Catalans given Almeria’s disastrous run of form over the past few weeks. The Andalusia-based outfit, fighting for survival, suffered three successive defeats against Rayo Vallecano, Real Betis and Girona. With Gironistes firing in six past them last weekend, Rubi’s men have a mountain to climb to script an upset at Power Horse Stadium.
Predicted 4-3-3 Barcelona Lineup To Face Almeria
Defence
The Spanish giants are leading the league standings with an eight-point cushion over Real Madrid and their backline deserves a lot of praise for their composure and rigidity throughout the campaign. They have only conceded seven goals in 22 games and the mastery of custodian Marc-André ter Stegen has helped them grind out results in the decisive fixtures.
19-year-old Alejandro Balde is another bright prospect to develop through the esteemed setup of La Masia. He must continue as the left fullback ahead of both Jordi Alba and Marcos Alonso. Ronald Araujo has been a revelation in deep defence and the gaffer might restore Eric Garcia to partner with the Uruguayan for this game. Jules Koundé should keep his place on the right-hand side of Barcelona’s four-man backline.
Midfield
Although Sergio Busquets is back again after a brief injury layoff, his minutes must be managed carefully for the remainder of the season. Frenkie De Jong is likely to operate as the deep-lying playmaker which would allow Gavi to operate in the advanced areas. Pedri has suffered a serious hamstring strain and the Spanish boss should rely on Franck Kessié ahead of versatile Sergi Roberto.
Attack
Raphinha must feature from the right-hand flank amid the injury absence of Ousmane Dembele. Fit-again Ansu Fati must exhibit his excellence down the left, however, former Manchester City star Ferran Torrest might get involved as a ‘super sub’ at some stage of the contest. In spite of converting from the spot, it was a night to forget for Robert Lewandowski against United. The Polish hitman must shake off the midweek shambles and bang a few goals versus Almeria to uplift the mood.
