Though Barcelona managed to extract a win against Rayo Vallecano, they must be disheartened by the injury of Marc Bernal. The 17-year-old looked promising and took up an important role in the side but an ACL injury will keep him out of the remainder of the season.
Barcelona have won all three games in La Liga so far and will be hoping to continue their domination. Their next challenge lies against Real Valladolid at home this weekend. Boss Hansi Flick will have to sit and solve the new problem that he is bound to face in the midfield.
4-2-3-1 Barcelona Predicted Lineup Vs Real Valladolid
Defence
Marc-Andre ter Stegen should’ve done better at the near post to avoid conceding the goal in the previous game. He will once again line up between the sticks but hoping for a clean sheet this time. As the likes of Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, and Ronald Araujo are injured, Hansi Flick doesn’t have many options for the backline.
Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, and Inigo Martinez should keep their place. However, Alejandro Balde is likely to walk back into the lineup replacing Gerard Martin.
Midfield
Marc Bernal’s injury is a big blow to Barcelona’s hopes. As Gavi and Frenkie de Jong remain sidelined, Fermin Lopez should get the nod to feature in the midfield alongside Pedri. Both young midfielders will have to show their defensive aspects in the middle of the park.
Attack
While Lamine Yamal continues to operate on the right wing, Raphinha is also certain considering his high work rate. However, Dani Olmo is expected to get his first start after an impressive debut for Barcelona. It means Ferran Torres will start on the bench.
Robert Lewandowski’s position as a striker in the side remains unchallenged.
