How the Catalans are likely to start in Cyprus.
Having already qualified for the knockout stages of the Champions League the pressure is off FC Barcelona somewhat as they take on APOEL Nicosia in Cyprus.
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APOEL frustrated Barca last time out as the three-time winners of this competition sneaked a 1-0 win at the Nou Camp on matchday one, but much has changed since then.
The Catalans are not guaranteed a top place finish as yet and therefore the opportunity to potentially avoid one of the better teams in the tournament, so Luis Enrique will be keen for another three points.
Here’s how we think the Spanish giants will lineup.
GK – Claudio Bravo
Although Marc-Andre ter Stegen is reportedly frustrated at his lack of first team appearances currently, the German will have to make do with being understudy to Bravo for the time being.
RB – Dani Alves
Martin Montoya wants more game time, but he too will struggle with Alves and Douglas both ahead of him for a place in the starting XI and we expect Enrique to opt for the experience of the former.
CB – Javier Mascherano
There is some debate as to whether Mascherano will play in defence or midfield, but with Marc Bartra only just returning from injury we expect to see the Argentine at the back.
CB – Jeremy Mathieu
Alongside the South American is a centre-back who has been impressing since his summer switch from Valencia and should start ahead of Gerard Pique with Thomas Vermaelen injured.
LB – Adriano
Completing the back line is a Brazilian who is on the fringes of the first team, but always looks to be a solid option.
CM – Ivan Rakitic
With not so much importance on this game we think Rakitic will have the chance to show he can be the creative spearhead in the middle for Enrique’s men.
CM – Sergio Busquets
Mascherano is at the back so the holding role will go to this established midfielder who has also found his scoring boot somewhat in recent times.
CM – Rafinha
Andres Iniesta is injured and veteran Xavi should be rested ahead of the league clash with Los Che at the weekend, meaning there is a rare opportunity for this Brazilian.
RW – Luis Suarez
It will be an impressive attack in Cyprus and this summer transfer is expected to start from the right side of a formidable front three.
ST – Lionel Messi
Enrique has experimented with Messi pushed out wide, but it’s clear that the best position for the Argentina international is through the middle.
LW – Neymar
Finally it’s a 22-year-old with experience and playing style beyond his years and APEOL with have a tough task on their hands to keep a clean-sheet.