How will Barcelona line up against Real Valladolid?

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Barca’s last away match of 2020

Barcelona head to Real Valladolid on Tuesday in their penultimate fixture of the year in need of a win after another disappointing result at the weekend.

Saturday’s draw with Valencia has deepened the gloom around the Camp Nou after wins over Levante and Real Sociedad and left the team in need of a win to raise spirits before Christmas.

Let’s look at who might feature:

Defence

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Koeman must decide whether to continue with Oscar Mingueza and Ronald Araujo at center-back or bring Clement Lenglet back into the starting XI. Samuel Umtiti is also an option at center-back.

The lack of options at right-back means Sergino Dest should continue, although Mingueza is an option to cover if the 20-year-old needs a breather. Jordi Alba is expected to continue at left-back with Marc-Andre ter Stegen between the sticks.

Midfield

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Frenkie de Jong was left out of the starting XI last time out because of a niggle but then came on at half-time and certainly didn’t appear to have any physical issues. The Dutchman should start here and will probably partner Sergio Busquets once again.

Koeman does of course have other options in midfield, with Miralem Pjanic, Riqui Puig and Carles Alena all fit and available, but it would be a surprise if any of the trio started on Tuesday.

Attack

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Ousmane Dembele looks like being ready for this one after a hamstring problem but you can be sure Barca won’t want to take any risks with the Frenchman and he may have to settle for a place on the bench.

Barca’s attack has lacked a spark recently and Koeman is likely to make changes. Philippe Coutinho would appear to be the most likely man to make way with Pedri looking a far better option than the Brazilian.

The goals have dried up for Martin Braithwaite recently but the Dane could get the nod again, while Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann should also continue in attack.

Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Dest, Araujo, Lenglet, Alba; De Jong, Busquets; Messi, Griezmann, Pedri; Braithwaite.

How do you think Barcelona should line up against Real Valladolid? Let us know your thoughts, predictions and teams in the comments below!

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