The Barcelona Lineup That Should Start Against Alaves

Lionel Messi
Messi was frustrated during Barcelona’s loss to Osasuna | David Ramos/Getty Images

Barcelona will be hoping to save some face, after Real Madrid won the league title, by beating bottom-half Alaves on Sunday.

Barcelona lost to Osasuna on Thursday night, which, along with Real winning, sent the title to Madrid.

Gerard PiqueGerard Pique
Barcelona lost to Osasuna, effectivelt handing Real Madrid the title | David Ramos/Getty Images

Los Cules are without a host of players, including club captain Gerard Pique who is suspended along with Ivan Rakitic and Junior Firpo. Meanwhile, Antoine Griezmann, (thigh), Ousmane Dembele (hamstring) ,and Samuel Umtiti (knee) are all unavailable.

Here’s the team that Quique Setien should pick for Sunday’s game.

Marc Andre Ter StegenMarc Andre Ter Stegen
Ter Stegen will undoubtedly start | Soccrates Images/Getty Images

Marc-Andre ter Stegen (GK) – Ter Stegen is arguably the best ‘keeper in the world, so he will undoubtedly start.

Nelson Semedo (RB) – He hasn’t taken over the right back spot from Sergi Roberto in the way that was expected, but with the midfield options limited, Roberto is likely to fill in there leaving room for Semedo in the backline.

Ronald Araujo (CB) – The Uruguayan centre back will likely start in place of the suspended Pique. He can usually be found playing for Barcelona B, but he has been called up for the first team this weekend.

Clement Lenglet (CB) – Lenglet is the only senior central defender available for selection, so he will be tasked with leading the Barcelona back line in Pique’s absence.

Jordi Alba (LB) – The Spaniard is still a regular starter for Los Cules, and has assisted three goals in all competitions this season.

FBL-ESP-LIGA-BARCELONA-OSASUNAFBL-ESP-LIGA-BARCELONA-OSASUNA
Riqui Puig is an exciting prospect for Barcelona | LLUIS GENE/Getty Images

Riqui Puig (CM) – The Spanish starlet is likely to get a start on Sunday as the club’s options in midfield are few and far between. Barca fans will be excited to see him in action again, as he is widely touted as a future star at the club.

Sergio Busquets (CM) – The 32-year old is still vital to Barcelona’s style of play, and will be tasked with running the midfield again this week.

Sergi Roberto (CM) – Despite playing at right back for large parts of his career, Roberto will move into central midfield on Sunday.

Lionel MessiLionel Messi
Messi has expressed his concern at the running of the club | David Ramos/Getty Images

Lionel Messi (RW) – It’s Messi, of course he’ll start.

Luis Suarez (ST) – The legendary forward recently became Barcelona’s third highest goalscorer of all time. His contract is up next year and Barca will have a tough time finding an adequate replacement for him.

Ansu Fati (LW) – The future of Barcelona, the young winger has had a sensational first season and will look to continue that on Sunday.

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