How will Barcelona line up against Espanyol?

Barcelona are back in La Liga action after the international break, with Espanyol the visitors to the Camp Nou on Saturday.

It’s the start of a busy week for Barca, who also face Villarreal and Atletico Madrid before their Champions League clash against Manchester United.

Let’s have a look at how they might line up:

Defence

Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images

Barcelona’s defenders have been busy over the international break, apart from Clement Lenglet who was not called up and should be fresh to start this one over Samuel Umtiti.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen only played 45 minutes for Germany and will also be looking to get back to action, while Gerard Pique only featured in Catalonia’s friendly.

At right-back Ernesto Valverde will again have to choose between Nelson Semedo and Sergi Roberto, while Jordi Alba will take up his usual spot on the opposite flank.

Midfield

Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images

Barcelona are likely to revert to their favoured midfield trio of Ivan Rakitic, Sergio Busquets and Arthur in midfield against Espanyol.

Arturo Vidal has been in the United States with Chile over the international break and may be handed a rest for this one, although Carles Alena is an option.

Attack

Barcelona will definitely be without the injured Ousmane Dembele against Espanyol.

The Frenchman remains sidelined and is not expected back until the clash with Atletico Madrid, according to the latest reports, with Philippe Coutinho expected to continue.

Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images

Valverde must also weigh up whether to select Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez who are both injury doubts.

Messi looks likely to feature as he’s returned to training after picking up a groin problem with Argentina, while it’s unclear if Suarez is fully fit after spraining his ankle against Betis.

Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Roberto, Pique, Lenglet, Alba; Rakitic, Busquets, Arthur; Messi, Suarez, Coutinho.

How do you think Barcelona should line up against Espanyol? Let us know your thoughts, predictions and teams in the comments below!