After negotiating an international break without taking up more injuries, Barcelona return to La Liga action against Real Valladolid, who are fighting on Monday night.
Since Ronald Koeman’s side returned to a 3-4-2-1 formation at the end of February, they are undefeated. They will be sure to extend their good run against Valladolid and further reduce the gap on leaders Atletico Madrid. With El Clasico coming next Saturday, a good result is especially important.
Here’s how Blaugrana will line up for Monday’s fixture …
De Jong played every minute of the Netherlands’ three World Cup qualifiers BSR Agency / Getty Images
Marc-Andre ter Stegen (GK) – He is officially the third best goalkeeper in the world so Ter Stegen will start if he does not block any injuries.Frenkie de Jong (CB) – De Jong embodies Ajax Total Football philosophy. Since he was moved to midfield, he has not put a foot wrong and has maintained a creative influence on the procedures.
Clement Lenglet (CB) – Lenglet has only missed three La Liga matches this season and two of these were through suspension.Oscar Mingueza (CB) – Ronald Araujo has pushed Mingueza hard for a starting place but Koeman will probably not change a winning team. This should ensure that the Spaniard gets the nod.
Dest was part of the US side that beat Northern Ireland in international break | John Dorton / ISI Photos / Getty Images
Sergino Dest (RWB) – Not everyone is convinced about the 20-year-old and when Sergi Roberto fits again, he may need to increase his production to keep his place. He did, however, make a brace last time, though.
Sergio Busquets (CM) – He may not be as efficient as once, but few midfielders are better at their jobs than Busquets. He’s still only 32 as well.
Pedri (CM) – The latest outburst star from the famous La Masia Academy, Pedri has turned his head with his strong performances throughout the season. He made his debut in Spain during an international break.Jordi Alba (LWB) – Vänsterbacken has chipped in with a goal and an assist in his team’s last three matches. He will look to continue the fine run against Valladolid.
Barcelona’s floating front three has clicked well too late Soccrates Images / Getty Images
Lionel Messi (FW) – We can enter the end of La Pulga’s film career in Barça and he will desperately go out with a bang.
Antoine Griezmann (FW) – After undergoing a narrow run, Griezmann has scored goals in each of his last two matches. He has looked good recently and it is likely that this streak will continue on Monday night.
Ousmane Dembele (FW) – Since Dembele returned after injury, he has done three times in 14 La Liga matches. Since there are few other options, thanks to the absence of Philippe Coutinho and Ansu Fati, he will still start.
