The pain and sorrow of Lionel Messi’s departure were alleviated to some extent by Barcelona’s victory over Real Sociedad last weekend. The Catalans looked in top form, convincingly winning the game at Camp Nou. Next up, a tricky test awaits Barcelona as they travel to San Memes to face Athletic Bilbao.
The Basque club have always posed a difficult challenge for the Blaugrana at the San Memes. Barca’s win against La Real was a collective effort and they will be hoping to replicate a similar performance and make two wins out of two in La Liga. On the other hand, Bilbao is searching for their first win of the season after drawing to Elche.
More from Everything Barca
- FC Barcelona tracking Belgian Wonderkid
- FC Barcelona vs Betis Player Ratings
- Barça boss Xavi to get contract extension
- FC Barcelona planning swoop for Arsenal midfielder
- Barcelona interested in €30 million wonderkid
Ronald Koeman spoke to the press ahead of the game, explaining some of his key squad decisions. The Dutchman left Philippe Coutinho out of the squad as he feels that the Brazilian still lacks the physical rhythm to take part in the match.
Meanwhile, Pedri will be given a much-needed break after this game and will be hoping that Luis Enrique doesn’t call Pedri to the national team as the 18-year-old finally gets his much-needed vacation. Ansu Fati and Marc-Andre ter Stegen are in the final stages of their recovery but are still unavailable for the game.
Here is the Barcelona predicted line-up vs Athletic Bilbao:
Goalkeeper: Neto
In Ter Stegen’s absence, Neto will once again start in goal for Barcelona. The Brazilian has been linked with a Camp Nou exit, previously attracting attention from Arsenal but with the Gunners signing Aaron Ramsdale, Arsenal’s search for a goalkeeper has come to an end. Neto was decent against Sociedad and could have done very little to stop the two goals. The 32-year-old will have be vigilant against the likes of Inaki Williams and Oihan Sancet.
Defence:
Right back: Sergino Dest
Sergino Dest had a bright start to the season as he showcased his attacking abilities against La Real. The USMNT star combined well on the right flank and his continued rise is a sign that Barca are already doing much better in this department than before.
Centre back: Gerard Pique
There was some doubt over the fitness of Gerard Pique. Koeman cleared the doubts, stating that the Spaniard had a couple of niggles in training but he is available for selection. Pique scored the first goal of the post Messi era and was solid in defence. He will be Koeman’s trusted first choice against a complex opposition.
Centre back: Eric Garcia
Eric Garcia had a smooth Barca debut against Sociedad but things wont be as rosy as they were last time around. The Spaniard will have to bring his A-game as he and Pique try to neutralize the threat of Inaki Williams.
Left back: Jordi Alba
Jordi Alba missed his telepathic connection with Messi but has already started forming a new partnership with Memphis Depay. The Spaniard’s defensive contributions will be as important as his attacking forays on the left flank against the Basque side. Alba and Dest provide width which helps Barca in stretching the opposition and creating space for their attackers.
Midfield:
Central defensive midfield: Sergio Busquets
If Barcelona are able to dominate Bilbao, Busquets will play a massive role in it. The Spaniard will be tasked with dictating the tempo of play where importance is given to quick transitions. Against Sociedad, the Barcelona captain showcased why he’s one of the best in the world in his position and he’ll have to utilize all his skills and experience against tough opposition at the enemy ground.
Central midfield: Pedri
Pedri came to Barcelona a year ago thinking to be involved with the B team but he has become one of the most important players of the club. At 18, he’s destined for greatness and he continues to assert himself as one of the brightest creative midfielders in Europe.
Despite having no summer break whatsoever, the Spaniard hardly put a foot wrong or looked tired against Sociedad. To much respite for the fans, he’s finally getting a two-week vacation after the Bilbao game.
Central midfield: Frenkie de Jong
Frenkie de Jong shined in the midfield against Real Sociedad, operating as a midfield general, making contributions in attack as well as in defence. His silky operation in the middle of the park is exactly what Barca need and it’s safe to say that the Dutchman has turned into one of the most important pieces in the Barca jigsaw.
Attack:
Left wing: Martin Braithwaite
The last game served as evidence that despite starting on the left wing, Martin Braithwaite and Memphis Depay continue to fluidly operate and inter change positions. Braithwaite scored a brace and was right on the money for the Blaugrana. Until the time, Ousmane Dembele and Ansu Fati recover, Braithwaite will remain in Koeman’s lineup and continue to be the speedy attacker he’s known to be.
Striker: Memphis Depay
There is newfound optimism around Barcelona regarding the club’s attack. Without Lionel Messi, things will not be as easy as they used to be but the trio of Braithwaite, Depay and Antoine Griezmann offer hope. Depay was heavily involved in Barcelona’s attack against La Real and will hope to score his first goal for the club against Bilbao.
Right wing: Antoine Griezmann
Athletic Bilbao are one of Griezmann’s favourite oppositions as he has scored 12 goals against the Basque club. Griezmann is not a traditional right winger but with Messi no longer dawning the Blaugrana jersey, the Frenchman will have extra freedom and added responsibility.
Griezmann has no excuses but to step up his output this season, especially in the attack. His work rate has been phenomenal but he now has to start being more decisive in the attack and become a lethal outlet for goals.
Can Barcelona win against Athletic Bilbao?