Barcelona vs Athletic Bilbao: Predicted starting XI for a must win game

The much maligned Barcelona midfield will once again have to function without Frenkie de Jong.

Based on how they performed against Sevilla, it’s going to be a hard task. They had plenty of experience out on the pitch but that was about it. The chaotic style of Arturo Vidal added little going forward and while not putting a foot out of line, the same could be said about Ivan Rakitic.

Again, because of how badly they need to win and because the players who could fill his role, De Jong and Sergi Roberto, are out injured, Sergio Busquets is likely to start his fourth game in a row.

The problem for the manager is who will start alongside of him because they need players who will be able to create something going forward because they can’t rely on Lionel Messi to do everything every single match.

Arthur Melo came on as a substitute in the Sevilla match but once again did not have his best match. Riqui Puig came on with about five minutes left meaning there was little he could do to have an impact.

The only other option is Monchu. But because he is a Barça B player, he is unlikely to feature at all.

Expect one of Vidal or Rakitic to be part of that midfield trio with Arthur more than likely taking up that last spot. It’s what they have and that lack of creativity is one of the reasons the club find themselves depending on other teams should they want to edge out Real Madrid.

Expected Barcelona midfield

Midfielder (right): Arturo Vidal
Central midfielder: Sergio Busquets
Midfielder (left): Arthir Melo