How will Barcelona line up against Valencia?

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La Liga returns after the international break

Barcelona are back in action on Sunday against Valencia at the Camp Nou in a pretty big game for the Catalans.

Ronald Koeman’s side are looking to bounce back from defeats to Atletico and Benfica, the Camp Nou could be full(ish) for the first time in 18 months and we could also see a debut for Sergio Aguero.

Let’s look at who could feature

Defense

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Koeman has a few issues in defense for this one. Ronald Araujo will miss out with a hamstring injury and Sergino Dest is also a doubt as he’s only just back from international duty with the USMNT.

Elsewhere, Jordi Alba is back after injury and should return at left-back and Alejandro Balde may also be back in the squad after returning to training after a back injury.

Gerard Pique looks set to start in the heart of the backline with Erica Garcia likely to partner him, although Clement Lenglet is also an option after reportedly shaking off a knee injury that’s been an issue. Oscar Mingueza is also available and could continue at right-back.

Midfield

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Barcelona will still be without Pedri against Valencia due to a thigh injury. The teenager is not expected back for another week at least.

Gavi could continue in the starting XI after impressing for Spain over the international break in the Nations League Final Four.

Sergio Busquets also shone for Luis Enrique’s side and should lead the team out against Valencia with Frenkie de Jong lining up alongside the captain in midfield.

Attack

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Koeman looks to have options to shake up his attack against Valencia which is good news for Barca. Ansu Fati could make his first start since making his long-awaited return from injury.

Sergio Aguero is also being tipped to finally make his debut following a goalscoring appearance in a friendly in midweek but is likely to start on the bench.

Memphis Depay should continue and rediscovered his goalscoring touch during the international break for the Netherlands. The forward scored twice and picked up two assists against Gibralatar but has only one in his last six for the Catalan giants in all competitions.

Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Mingueza, Pique, Garcia, Alba; Busquets, De Jong, Gavi; Coutinho, Memphis, Ansu.

How do YOU think Barcelona should line up against Valencia? Let us know your teams, lineups and predictions in the comments below!

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