How will Barcelona line up against Real Sociedad?

Barcelona are finally back in action on Saturday after the international break as they head to Real Sociedad.

Given Barcelona’s recent record at Anoeta it’s likely Ernesto Valverde will go for his strongest team, although he may also be thinking about Tuesday’s Champions League game against PSV Eindhoven.

Here’s a look at how they might line up.

Defence

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The defence should be pretty well-rested after the break. Nelson Semedo, Gerard Pique and Jordi Alba were not in action at all. Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Sergi Roberto were only sparingly used.

Samuel Umtiti played in both of France’s games, and if Valverde does fancy giving him a rest he has the perfect replacement in Clement Lenglet.

Lenglet has yet to start for Barcelona in La Liga but said after the Huesca win he wants to play more. This could be the perfect opportunity for him to come into the team.

Midfield

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Ivan Rakitic, Sergio Busquets and Philippe Coutinho all featured against Huesca, and it’s likely they will continue.

There are plenty of options if Valverde does wants to switch things up.

Arthur is pushing for a place after making his first Brazil start, Arturo Vidal is fit and eyeing a first La Liga start, while Rafinha hasn’t made a single league appearance yet despite a bright pre-season.

Attack

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There will likely be few surprises in attack too. Ousmane Dembele has started the season well and deserves to keep his place. Malcom has picked up an ankle problem and looks set to sit this one out.

Luis Suarez seems to be back in form after scoring against Huesca and Mexico while with Uruguay. He has spoken about how he knows he will need to be rested this season, but it’s unlikely to happen just yet.

And then there’s Lionel Messi. The Argentine has four goals and two assists in three La Liga games, and if Barcelona do get into trouble in Anoeta they will certainly need their captain.

Probably starting XI: Ter Stegen; Roberto, Pique, Umtiti, Alba; Rakitic, Busquets, Coutinho; Dembele, Suarez, Messi.

How do you think Barcelona should line up against Real Sociedad? Let us know your thoughts and line-ups in the comments below!