Barcelona are currently in seventh heaven in the Spanish La Liga, having won all their seven matches in the La Liga so far, showing absolute dominance over the opponents. They have made a brilliant start to the season and are eyeing a much-awaited redemption after a disappointing campaign in the last term.
They, however, faced a stern test in their last match against Atletico Madrid, who ruined the party for Barcelona in their own backyard. They held the mighty Blaugrana to a 1-1 draw, which deterred their progress in the La Liga to some extent. Their next opponents, Malaga, will look to do something similar when they face the Catalan giants in their next encounter.
That might look pretty unlikely, especially with the kind of form Barcelona are currently in. They have already scored 24 goals and have conceded only three to cement their place on the top berth, hoping to topple the current champions and their arch-rivals Real Madrid and clinch the coveted title once again. Here is how they might lineup for this tie:
Defence
Barcelona have dished out diligent performances in the La Liga so far this season, with their backline proving themselves as one of the best in Europe. They have conceded only two goals so far this season, restricting their opponents from getting into the final third with brilliant tackles and clearances.
With no significant injuries to their regular back four, they are set to deploy Sergi Roberto and Jordi Alba on both sides and Samuel Umtiti and Gerard Pique in the centre of the backline, safeguarding their goal from the Malaga forwards, with Marc Andre Ter Stegen standing beneath the crossbars.
Midfield
The Blaugrana midfield has been one of the best in Europe over a prolonged period of time. With players like Sergio Busquets and Andreas Iniesta playing in their midfield, it will be tough for their opponents to keep a check on the players from getting the ball into the final third and help the forward to score goals.
They will be aptly supported by the Brazilian ace Paulinho, who has performed exceedingly well after his shock move from the Chinese Super League.
Attack
With Lionel Messi at the helm of their attack, it has been a great season for the Catalan club so far. The Argentine ace is soaring high with 11 goals already and will look to add to his tally when they take on Malaga.
In the absence of Ousmane Dembele, Messi might be supported by Dennis Suarez and Luis Suarez, who is set spearhead their attack.
Predicted lineup
Ter Stegen, Roberto, Pique, Umtiti, Alba, Busquets, Paulinho, Iniesta, D.Suarez, L.Suarez, Messi.
