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FC Barcelona have a superb alternative to stretch their lead on the prime of the La Liga desk after they tackle CA Osasuna at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on Saturday evening.
The Blaugrana are at present one level forward of second-placed Atletico Madrid and two above Actual Madrid in third. With each the capital golf equipment taking part in on Sunday, Barça can open up a much bigger hole with a win and put their rivals beneath stress.
Nevertheless, it will likely be simpler mentioned than accomplished for Barcelona as Osasuna have proven they could be a powerful opponent, having overwhelmed the Catalans 4-2 within the reverse fixture earlier within the season.
Moreover, Hansi Flick might look to rotate his troops maintaining a tally of the UEFA Champions League Spherical of 16 second-leg tie vs. Benfica subsequent week.
The excellent news for Barcelona is that Gavi skilled usually with the group at the moment after lacking the midweek recreation attributable to sickness. Alejandro Balde, who suffered a knock in opposition to Benfica, can also be match and able to go.
Solely Marc Bernal, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Andreas Christensen are absent attributable to harm issues.
Right here’s how the league leaders might take the sphere tomorrow at Montjuic of their bid to open up a much bigger hole on the prime of the desk.
Defence
Wojciech Szczesny put in his greatest efficiency in Barcelona colors in opposition to Benfica this week, additional solidifying his standing because the first-choice goalkeeper in Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s absence.
The defensive position might see some adjustments beginning at left-back the place Gerard Martin might get the nod in order to not danger Balde proper after his restoration from the knock.
In for a beginning berth? (Photograph by Alex Caparros/Getty Pictures)
Inigo Martinez is also given a breather by supervisor Hansi Flick, doubtlessly making means for Eric Garcia to characteristic from the get-go in opposition to Osasuna. The Spaniard will line up alongside Pau Cubarsi, who will miss the UCL conflict attributable to suspension.
Jules Kounde, nonetheless, is anticipated to carry on to his place because the right-back forward of younger Hector Fort.
Midfield
There’s anticipated to be some main shuffling in the midst of the park as Pedri and Frenkie de Jong might each be given some relaxation by Flick on Saturday evening.
It ought to open the doorways for Marc Casado to return to the beginning lineup, slotting in because the defensive midfielder within the double pivot, the place his accomplice is prone to be Gavi.
One other change could possibly be on the playing cards within the No. 10 place the place Fermin Lopez may be in for a beginning berth, on the expense of Dani Olmo.
Assault
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are prone to maintain on to their locations within the ultimate third, slotting in on the proper and left flanks, respectively. Nevertheless, Flick might decide to carry his ace striker, Robert Lewandowski, again for Saturday’s recreation.
In his place, Ferran Torres would possibly get a look-in because the centre-forward, though utilizing Dani Olmo as a false 9 would even be an fascinating avenue for Barcelona.
