There are few days until Barcelona players leave for the World Cup and two games before then, Almeria and Osasuna. After experimenting at Plzen, Barcelona will be at full strength again. That means with Dembélé, with Lewandowski and we will see if it’s with Ferran Torres or Ansu Fati. There is the possibility that Xavi bets again on the four midfielders with Pedri freer on the left, but the most logical thing would be 4-3-3 and betting on Ansu or Ferran as the third man.
The dynamics and logic after the clash in the Czech Republic tell us that Ferran could have the edge. He was the best at the Doosan Arena and he is expected to gain confidence and take a step forward. Two goals and very positive symptoms that could make Xavi opt for him.
Ansu has had two starts in a row. In Plzen he played 90 minutes again, the first time in almost two and a half years. Without yet finding the spark and the best point of form for him, the Barcelona coach could think that it is his turn against Rubi’s team to be an option from the bench.
Speculating elsewhere, De Jong, Pedri and Gavi could form the starting midfield. Although after staying in Barcelona and having rested in the Champions League, Busquets could also have a presence in the pivot – especially with a team like Almeria coming to Camp Nou.
At the back, Pique will probably start in his farewell match from the Camp nou. Eric might also start after recovering from their issues against Valencia. Balde will be right back with Alba or Marcos Alonso on the left.
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