How will Barcelona line up against Osasuna?

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Barcelona will come back down to earth after Wednesday’s superb win over Sevilla in the Copa del Rey when they play Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday.

It’s a big game for Barcelona with Atletico Madrid hosting Real Madrid on Sunday in what could prove to be a big weekend in the race for the title.

Ronald Koeman has some big decisions to make with injuries again a problem and fatigue likely to be an issue. Barca played extra-time again in midweek and take on Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Let’s look at who might feature.

Defense

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Koeman has problems in defense with Gerard Pique out after injuring his knee against Sevilla. Ronald Araujo is also still not back in full training and seems unlikely to make the squad.

The Barca boss has used three center-backs recently to good effect recently but may have to switch formation for Saturday’s match because of the injuries. Oscar Mingueza, Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti are his center-back options.

Sergino Dest should continue at right-back, while Junior Firpo is available to replace Jordi Alba on the opposite flank if the left-back needs a breather.

Midfield

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Koeman has no such injury problems in midfield with Pedri having made a miraculous return in midweek and Miralem Pjanic back in training after an ankle knock.

The coach could still make changes in midfield to freshen things up after seeing his team play extra-time again on Wedneday.

Pjanic, Riqui Puig and Ilaix Moriba will be hoping for rare starts and could be used to give some of the regular a rest.

Attack

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Antoine Griezmann has started the last three games on the bench but will be hoping to return to the starting XI for this one.

The Frenchman came off the bench and teed up Gerard Pique’s equalizer in midweek which was his ninth assist of 2021.

Martin Braithwaite got the winner and could also get some game time here, while Francisco Trincao looks a good bet to start and help freshen up the attack.

Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Dest, Mingueza, Umtiti, Alba; Ilaix, De Jong, Pedri; Trincao, Messi, Griezmann.

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

Source: barcablaugranes.com