Ronald Koeman’s Barcelona in opposition to Granada on Thursday evening when La Blaugrana strives to take pole place within the La Liga title race.
Barça’s distinctive league from was stopped earlier this month, when Actual Madrid ended a 19-match unbeaten run which has helped them get a title payment. Because the 2-1 loss to Los Blancos, Koeman’s males have reacted properly, beating Athletic Membership 4-0 within the Copa del Rey last and defeating Getafe and Villarreal in La Liga – 5-2 and 2-1 respectively. A victory on Thursday would result in Barcelona taking the highest spot with one level, the place all 4 title candidates performed 33 occasions.
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They face a Granada aspect who, after a promising begin to the marketing campaign, have let the inconsistency hinder a European qualifier. They’re eighth in La Liga, seven factors outdoors Villareal in seventh, and have misplaced six of their final ten in all competitions – together with each legs of their Europa League quarter-final in opposition to Manchester United.
To say what can be a vital win within the race for the La Liga crown, right here is the Barcelona line-up to start.
Oscar Mingueza has been implausible this season LLUIS GENE / Getty Pictures
Marc-Andre ter Stegen (GK) – Barcelona’s undisputed primary has been wonderful all season and can certainly play a giant position of their driving.
Oscar Mingueza (CB) – Has gone into the body remarkably properly and has seemed composed, stable and efficient all through the marketing campaign.
Gerard Pique (CB) – Prevented by an injured season however squirts nice expertise and calm in the midst of the three rear and will positively begin.
Clement Lengelt (CB) – Has been concerned within the odd mistake this season however he has an excellent passing means that enables La Blaugrana to construct from behind which we like to see.
Frenkie de Jong is one in all Ronald Koeman’s foremost males Soccrates Pictures / Getty Pictures
Sergi Roberto (RWB) – Has had a dry time with damage however could be implausible on his day. Are available in for Sergino Dest at half time in opposition to Villarreal so can profit on Thursday.
Frenkie de Jong (CM) – One in all the aspect’s most influential gamers together with his sport on and off the ball. They don’t look the identical with out him in midfield.
Sergio Busquets (CM) – The veteran at all times performs his position expertly and can give a stable display screen to his again three if Granada decides to launch the odd counterattack.
Pedri (CM) – Fairly merely a revelation this season. Has not been as spectacular as he could also be in current weeks however will at all times give his all and present up everywhere in the pitch.
Jordi Alba (LWB) – An absolute menace in the long run and hopes to give you the chance to construct on his ten aim contributions up to now within the league.
A lethal duo | JOSE JORDAN / Getty Pictures
Lionel Messi (ST) – The genius has 25 objectives and 11 assists in 30 La Liga video games this promotion, and even when he didn’t register any of the final occasions, it’s seemingly that he’ll harm his opposition.
Antoine Griezmann (ST) – Turning into more and more necessary for Koeman’s aspect with sturdy and artistic shows. He has 5 strikes throughout his final six La Liga excursions, together with the decisive keep that gave Barça a 2-1 victory final time.
