Catalan giants FC Barcelona are off to a great start in La Liga. The Blaugrana have already won seven of their last eight games in the Spanish League.
They currently have 22 points from these first 8 games and are top of the table ahead of defending champion Real Madrid on goal difference.
However, things have not been the same in the UEFA Champions League. Despite a great victory against Viktoria Plzen in their first game, the Blaugrana lost their last two games. The first came against Bayern Munich at the Allianz in a frustrating match in which he failed to score after creating many important chances. They then lost to Inter Milan at the San Siro in a match that saw many unfortunate decisions.
The Blaugrana will face Inter Milan again tonight in one of the most important games of the season. Before that though, let’s take a look at how they can line up against the Nerazzurri.
Barcelona’s starting eleven against Inter Milan
Due to the absence of many players in defense, Barcelona coach Xavi will most likely start with a 3-4-3 diamond formation.
German goalkeeper Marc Andre ter-Stegan is expected to keep his place in the starting lineup. After regaining his form, the German has been very good throughout this season. Once again he will have to give his best to get the best result from this tie.
With Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde and Andreas Christiansen out injured, veteran centre-back Gerard Piqué will get a start at the heart of the defence. The former Spanish international will be accompanied by Eric García on the right side and Marcos Alonso on the left.
Ahead of the three-man backline, Sergio Busquets will play defensive screen. The Barcelona captain will have a very important role in protecting the three-man defense and also creating chances with his play.
Against Busquets, Gavi and Frenkie De Jong will form a pivot. Both Barcelona midfielders will have to act as pressure agents. They will also have to cover the wide areas during the defensive phase.
The young midfielder Pedri will play at the top of the diamond. He will be given the number 10 spot and freedom to build Barcelona’s attacks. His creativity and technical ability are a must for Barça in this game.
Now Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha will play on the wings while Robert Lewandowski will have the duty of leading Barcelona’s attack. The trio will need to be at their best and show their clinical best in front of goal.
full lineup
Goalkeeper: Marc Andre ter-Stegan
Defender: Eric Garcia, Gerrard Pique, Marcos Alonso
Midfielders: Frenkie De Jong, Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Gavi
Forward: Robert Lewandowski, Ousmane Dembele
