Barcelona have been struggling to find their rhythm this season and after seven games, Ronald Koeman’s side find themselves ninth on the league table.
Before the international break, the Catalans suffered a 2-0 loss at the hands of Atletico Madrid and this defeat has pushed Koeman’s back against the wall. Next up, Barcelona take on Valencia at Camp Nou and a failure to win this match could push them to the bottom half of the table.
Valencia surprisingly find themselves above Barca on the La Liga table but their away form has not been great as they have failed to win 13 of their last 14 away league matches.
Ronald Koeman has several injury concerns going into Sunday’s game and this could once again be a cause of concern when naming his starting line up.
Barcelona team news vs Valencia:
Ronald Araujo is set to miss out with a hamstring injury while Sergio Dest is also a doubt since he was involved in national duty. With Araujo out Eric Garcia will come into the starting XI.
If Dest is not ready to start then Mingueza will start as the right full-back and with Jordi Alba becoming available again, the senior pro is going to reprise his role on the left-hand side of defence.
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Pedri is still recovering from a thigh injury and will be unavailable for selection but Sergio Busquets will keep his place in defensive midfield.
Gavi impressed with his performances for the Spanish national side so he could retain his place in the starting line up from the Atletico Madrid game.
Ansu Fati has finally recovered from his injury and is expected to start on the right-hand side of attack with Depay operating on the left flank.
Sergio Aguero will go through a late fitness test to determine his availability but at best he will only find a place on the bench. Luuk de Jong will start up front and maybe Aguero will come on as a substitute in the second half.
Barcelona predicted line up vs Valencia:
Predicted XI: Ter Stegen; Mingueza/Dest, Pique, Garcia, Alba; Busquets, De Jong, Gavi; Luuk de Jong/Aguero, Memphis, Ansu Fati.
Stats via Whoscored.
