The good news for the much maligned Catalan defense is that Valladolid have a -10 goal differential and have scored the third fewest goals in La Liga.
The bad news of course is that even with teams who struggle to score, they still seem to be able cut the Barcelona defense on the counter-attack.
Samuel Umtiti aside, everyone else is healthy and available including Junior Firpo who got the medical green light.
There was a bit of a scare for Gerard Pique during the Espanyol match where he was the recipient of a nasty challenge that resulted in the Espanyol player being sent off. He was able to finish the match but he’s also one of the ones who has featured in every game since the restart.
Should Setien want to give him a breather, Ronald Araujo is available and has proven that he can be reliable when given a chance. With Firpo just coming back, still expect Jordi Alba to start.
Sergi Roberto is also back fit but Nelson Semedo has kept his starting spot at right-back with Setien opting to play Roberto in midfield. What Roberto offers at right-back that Semedo doesn’t is that understanding with the rest of his teammates because he knows the system.
Despite being at Barcelona for a handful of seasons now, Semedo still looks hesitant at times and his crossing has yet to improve. Since Valladolid struggle scoring, Setien may opt for Roberto as he may feel the team won’t be pressured as often and he won’t be called upon too much in defense.
Expected Barcelona defense
Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre ter Stegen
Right-back: Sergi Roberto
Center-back (right): Gerard Pique
Center-back (left): Clement Lenglet
Left-back: Jordi Alba