Centre-backs –
Gerard Piqué (first-choice) : The Spanish defender is one of the world’s best at his trade. But he is no Carles Puyol vis-à-vis stamina. He needs rest, and should be getting it this season. Valverde has many options at his disposal, and should rest Piqué in the Copa del Rey.
Samuel Umtiti (first-choice) : The French defender used the 2016-17 season as his breakout season. He has brilliant stamina. But he does not need to play in every game. Valverde can retain him for the Champions League, but can bench him sometimes in the league.
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Javier Mascherano (second-choice) : The veteran Argentine lost his place in the first-team to Samuel Umtiti last season, but he still is solid at the back. Valverde can use Mascherano when he wants to rest Piqué, in the league and other competitions.
Marlon Santos (second-choice) : The Brazilian defender has not matured enough to succeed Gerard Piqué in the first-team. But Ernesto Valverde should hand him some opportunities this season. He should be starting the Copa del Rey games.
Thomas Vermaelen (third-choice) : The Belgian centre-back is injury-prone. Ernesto Valverde is unlikely to include him in his plans this season. But he can be a useful player towards the latter stages of the season, when most players are knackered.