Real Sociedad have a grave problem heading into the Barcelona match

Barcelona will desperately look to return to winning ways as they take on Real Sociedad on Monday.

The club are coming on the back of a disappointing defeat to Girona in the Catalan derby and the second spot in the league table could be on the line.

It will be an equally important game for Sociedad, who are looking to consolidate their position in the sixth place, especially with Real Betis breathing down their necks.

Real Sociedad’s left-back problem vs Barcelona

However, as Real Sociedad approach this game, the club are dealing with one major issue – the lack of a recognised left-back.

That is because the team’s two main fullbacks Javi Galan and Aihen Munoz are out injured. Munoz has been out of action for quite some time now owing to an ACL injury, whereas Javi Galan has not been included in the team.

The absence of these two players leaves Kieran Tierney as the only other available left-back against Barcelona. However, even the Scottish international might not be able to feature on Monday.

At least that is what the Real Sociedad coach Imanol Alguacil indicated heading into the Barça game, citing Tierney’s recent return from an injury.

Should Tierney also miss out on the starting eleven, Real Sociedad will have to make do with a makeshift left-back against Barcelona.

Young Jon Aramburu is a potential option for coach Alguacil, as the Venezuelan replaced Galan in the last game and can operate on the left flank, if necessary.

This could play into the hands of the Catalans, especially with the likes of Raphinha and Lamine Yamal looking to return to form after a disappointing defeat to Girona.