With the La Liga battle set to start, Barcelona’s 2-0 loss at the hand of Real Madrid should work as a dose of antidote for the squad. The Catalans looked dejected after the loss in the Spanish Super Cup second leg as Los Blancos lifted the trophy.
Ernesto Valverde’s Barcelona career has started with a loss and he will have the chance to repair the damage when the season officially starts in Spain. Barcelona are set to welcome Real Betis at the Nou Camp on 20th August to kick start their campaign.
The Spanish giants do have the necessary ammunition to fire in the Spanish top tier but the departure of Neymar could have an adverse effect on the team.
The club are yet to finalise his replacement and it remains to be seen who Valverde chooses to take the place of Neymar.
Predicted 4-3-3 Barcelona Lineup Against Real Betis
Defence
Marc-Andre ter Stegen would be a bit shaky after consecutive losses but a good performance in the first match would pump up his morale. The German international will be in the goal to thwart the danger.
Gerard Pique had a shoddy evening at the Santiago Bernabeu and he would be very eager to prove his mettle. Samuel Umtiti has shown maturity in the deep defence and he is expected to continue his show.
Jordi Alba could be very effective on his day and he will start on the left side of the defence.
New arrival Nelson Semedo will have his first chance to enthral the fans as he is due to get a starting berth.
Midfield
Sergio Busquets’ importance in the team cannot be denied and the Spanish international will be at the base of the three man midfield. His ability to nullify the opposition attack would help the other attacking players to contribute more.
Andre Gomes and Ivan Rakitic will start up in the midfield. They need to shift gears according to the need of the match and Valverde would be hoping they fare well.
Attack
Gerard Deulofeu’s lack of competition should earn him a place in the starting lineup. He will try to link up with the other forwards from the left flank.
Lionel Messi is capable of overturning a match single handedly and the onus will be once again on him to deliver.
Luis Suarez is expected to be out for a month after the forward got injured in the last match and it will pave the way for Paco Alcacer.
