Sevilla vs Barcelona: Predicted starting XI for Quique Setien

The Barcelona front three is perhaps the most interesting in terms of who will accompany Lionel Messi.

Antoine Griezmann and Martin Braithwaite did so against Mallorca with the Danish opening up his Barcelona account. Ansu Fati played in place of him against Leganes and also scored.

Luis Suarez also featured in both games but came off the bench. They are trying to take it easy and ease him back with Setien mentioning that he still doesn’t think the Uruguayan is fit enough for a full match.

But Barcelona are a different, and better, team when he is on the pitch alongside Messi. He could start but be put on a plan which would see him be subbed off during the second half. Of course, that plan may be altered if they find themselves behind in the game.

Right now, Messi, like Busquets, is the only name penciled into that front three. He’s been in mid-season form in the first two games. He’s racked up a couple of goals and assists already. Plus, he usually scores against Sevilla and has an impressive record against them.

Because of how important the game is and because Barcelona cannot afford to drop any points at the moment, Antoine Griezmann and Luis Suarez are likely to start with Braithwaite coming on for Suarez in the second half.

It’s as close to a “Gala XI” as we’re going to see. Assuming Real Madrid win their match against Valencia, that would put Barcelona only two points ahead, meaning that anything short of a win could potentially see the Catalans lose their place atop the standings.

Expected Barcelona attack

Right-winger: Lionel Messi
Center-forward: Luis Suarez
Left-winger: Antoine Griezmann