Despite having very little left to play for this season, Barcelona still have to motivate themselves for the visit of Real Sociedad in La Liga on Monday night.
Xavi’s side fell to a hugely disappointing 4-2 defeat to Girona last time out after conceding three goals in nine second-half minutes – a result that handed the La Liga title to their fierce rivals Real Madrid. With Champions League qualification already secured, this promises to be nothing more than a dead rubber for the Catalan club.
Barcelona only have a few injuries to contend with ahead of Monday’s clash and should be able to field an incredibly strong lineup. While the defeat to Girona was underwhelming, Xavi is unlikely to change too much in terms of his starting lineup.
Here is how Barcelona could line up against Real Sociedad.
GK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen – The Barca goalkeeper hasn’t been in inspiring form of late but his place in the starting lineup isn’t in jeopardy.
RB: Jules Kounde – One of the more positive performers in Barcelona’s misfiring defence, who have now conceded 13 times across their last four matches.
CB: Ronald Araujo – Frequently linked with a summer exit, Araujo’s form has been pretty woeful recently, including that notable red card against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. He was poor again in Girona but Xavi has kept the faith with him regardless.
CB: Pau Cubarsi – Struggled to match the physicality of Artem Dobvyk last weekend but he has still been a breath of fresh air for Barca this season at just 17 years of age.
LB: Joao Cancelo – Despite really being a winger, Cancelo continues to be deployed at full-back wherever he goes. Real Sociedad will look to exploit his defensive weaknesses.
CM: Pedri – The youngster hasn’t started any of the last three matches but could well return to the lineup for the visit of Real Sociedad. However, he’s struggled to make an impact in recent cameos.
CM: Andreas Christensen – Scored a belter in the defeat against Girona and looked solid in his new-look holding midfield role. Offers some security to Barca’s back four.
CM: Ilkay Gundogan – The former Manchester City man has been one of the few consistent performers in Barcelona’s team this season. Even in defeat last week he proved a positive influence.
RW: Lamine Yamal – It’s bizarre that Yamal is largely carrying Barcelona’s attack at just 16, but he continues to dazzle on the right flank. Provided some good runs and an assist during the Girona defeat.
ST: Robert Lewandowski – After some criticism in recent weeks, Lewandowski now has four goals in his last two matches, and he can definitely fire Barca to victory this Monday.
LW: Raphinha – After being dropped to the bench against Girona, the Brazilian should return. He’s looking to recapture a positive run of form inspired by the Champions League duels with PSG.
