How will Barcelona line up against Villarreal?

Barcelona are back in La Liga action on Tuesday as they head to the Estadio de la Ceramica to take on struggling Villarreal.

Ernesto Valverde’s side came through a tough test against Espanyol on Saturday, while Villarreal threw away a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to Celta Vigo.

Both teams play again at the weekend in La Liga which means changes could be made for this one.

Let’s have a look at who might feature.

Defence

Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images

Valverde has options in defence if he wants to freshen things up.

Samuel Umtiti, Thomas Vermaelen and Jeison Murillo are all fit and available to come in at centre-back.

Sergi Roberto could also replace Nelson Semedo at right-back after the Portugal international started Saturday’s win over Espanyol.

Otherwise, Gerard Pique, Jordi Alba and Marc-Andre ter Stegen should all continue at the back for Barcelona.

Midfield

Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images

Ivan Rakitic, Sergio Busquets and Arthur all started against Espanyol, but Valverde could make a couple of changes in midfield for this one.

Arturo Vidal and Carles Alena are the most likely options to come in.

The Chilean featured as a substitute against Espanyol, while Alena has struggled for game time recently.

Attack

Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images

Malcom is pushing for a start in attack after an impressive cameo against Espanyol where he set up the second goal.

The Brazilian could come in for Philippe Coutinho, with Ousmane Dembele still out injured for this game.

Valverde must also decide whether to start Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in attack.

Both players were back from injury against Espanyol but Valverde may be wary of the duo playing three games in a week.

Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Roberto, Pique, Umtiti, Alba; Rakitic, Busquets, Vidal; Malcom, Messi, Suarez.

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