Barcelona’s strongest XI against Levante on Sunday
By Zoheb Alam
Barcelona fans would have been upset with their club’s performance against Cadiz. A goalless draw at the Estadio Nuevo Mirandilla meant that the Catalans have now slipped to seventh place in the league table.
But now, the Blaugrana outfit are back in their home territory for their league fixture against Levante. This could well be a much-needed change for the La Liga giants who of late have endured a rough time on the pitch, and therefore a win at the Camp Nou could help the fans reduce their anxiety.
However, against Levante, Barca are expected to receive tough competition as Paco Lopez’s side have showcased their strength up front. Last month, the visitors were able to hold back league leaders Real Madrid to a 3-3 draw at their home turf and hence on Sunday, the hosts should look to remain on top of their game from the very first whistle.
Team updates for Barcelona
Talking about team news, Ansu Fati has finally made his return to the first-team roster and therefore was named in the 20-man squad against the Frogs on Saturday. However, Barcelona will not receive the services of their manager Ronald Koeman as he has been handed a two-game ban following his red card against Cadiz.
On Sunday, Barcelona’s strongest XI will feature…
Marc Andre Ter Stegen will feature as the no.1 and is expected to keep a clean-sheet. The German will be accompanied by two central defenders-Gerard Pique and Ronald Araujo. This centre-back pairing has put up good performances in the league campaign and therefore it will be important that this defensive duo keep things tidy at the back.
Sergino Dest will return as the left-back whereas Oscar Mingueza will likely get another start at his new right-back role. Both defenders had an average game against Cadiz and hence would look to put up an improved performance on Sunday.
Barca’s midfield setup will be consist of Sergio Busquets as the defensive midfielder. In absence of Frenkie De Jong, Sergi Roberto could fill in as left central midfielder. Youngster Gavi will get a role in this team as the attacking midfielder.
Next. Cadiz vs Barcelona: Another disappointing night for the Barca fans!. dark
Memphis Depay is due to return as the no.9 and hence the onus will be on the Dutchman to create attacking chances. Yusuf Demir will likely occupy the right-wing and hence will look to make most of his start. Phillipe Coutinho will be slotted as the left winger and therefore the Brazilian will have to fire all cylinders against Levante.