The new season is finally here as Barcelona and Sevilla kick things off with the Supercopa de Espana in Morocco on Sunday.
It’s a repeat of the final of the Copa del Rey back in April which Barcelona completely bossed and ran out 5-0 winners.
There may be some key players missing after their involvement at the World Cup, so let’s have a look at who could play.
Defence
It’s a straight choice between Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Jasper Cillesseen between the sticks for Barcelona.
In front of him we should see Nelson Semedo at right-back as Sergi Roberto is suspended for this one after his red card against Real Madrid at the end of last season.
In central defence Barcelona could be without Samuel Umtiti. He was one of the last players to return to action after winning the World Cup with France.
Clement Lenglet could therefore face his former team and partner Gerard Pique in the heart of the defence.
All of which just leaves left-back and while Jordi Alba will be expected to start it’s possible we could see youngster Juan Miranda. The teenager has been training with the team all week which suggests he’ll be involved at some point.
Midfield
We may get to see some more new signings in midfield where Arthur will be pushing for a start as will Arturo Vidal.
The game probably comes too soon for World Cup finalist Ivan Rakitic, but Sergi Busquets should feature and possibly Philippe Coutinho.
Rafinha had a strong pre-season and will hope to get a chance to impress again, but Denis Suarez remains injured after picking up a problem on the US tour.
Riqui Puig is another option for Valverde after impressing in pre-season. Like Miranda the youngster has also been training with the first team this week.
Attack
After missing the US tour it’s expected that Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez will start this one, and Malcom will be pushing for a place too.
Ousmane Dembele returned from training a little earlier than expected, but it may be that it’s still too soon for him to start.
Possible starting line-up: Ter Stegen; Semedo, Pique, Lenglet, Alba: Arthur, Busquets, Coutinho; Malcom, Messi, Suarez.
How would you like to see Barcelona line up on Sunday? Let us know your thoughts, line-ups and predictions for the game in the comments below!