Barcelona thrashed Levante in the last game to continue their dominance in the La Liga and next they are set to host Celta Vigo at Camp Nou. The Sky Blues have often shown in the past that they can go head to head with the strongest teams and come back with a positive result and once again they are going to be no pushovers.
However, given the form Lionel Messi has shown in the past month, there is no doubt that only one team would go in as the favourite in this tie. The Blaugrana’s defence have been all over the place partly because of injuries, but they have been firing on all cylinders further up the pitch.
Team News
Nelson Semedo had to pull out of the previous game at the last moment with a knee injury, but it has been confirmed that the injury is not too serious. So he is expected to come back in the lineup. Versatile Sergi Roberto is also closing in on a return, and he could be on the bench for this tie. Rafinha and Malcom are unlikely to play any part in this game. Thomas Vermaelen and Samuel Umtiti are also ruled out for this match.
Barcelona predicted lineup Vs Celta Vigo
Formation (4-3-3)
Defence
Marc Andre Ter Stegen has developed a reputation of being one of the best in the world, and he has definitely shown that this season. Valverde will once again trust him to start in goal. The centre-backs almost pick themselves as there are no other fit defenders available. Clement Lenglet and Gerard Pique are going to play in the heart of the defence.
Nelson Semedo should be back in the lineup after he missed the last tie. He should start in the right-back role. The ever-dependable Jordi Alba is going to be in his usual left-back position.
Midfield
Sergio Busquets is once again going to reprise his defensive midfielder’s role. Ivan Rakitic and Arthur are likely to start on either side of the Spaniard. It’s a tough call between Arthur and Arturo Vidal, but we feel Arthur might get the nod in this tie to start.
Attack
Argentine forward Lionel Messi looks like a man on a mission this season, and he has been turning up with masterclass performances every week. He is expected to start from the right, but he is going to have a free role across the final third.
Philippe Coutinho should be back in the starting eleven for this match, and he is expected to start from the left. Luis Suarez is once again expected to lead the line.
