Spanish giants Barcelona face a hugely tough test as they come up against Real Sociedad on Wednesday in their La Liga clash at the Camp Nou. Sociedad are the current table toppers and should they manage to secure a win against Barcelona, they would extend their lead at the top of the table.
Barca won their last league game against Levante but it was an underwhelming performance from Ronald Koeman’s side. It was a slender 1-0 victory and could have ended in a reverse fashion, but Levante had their ill luck to blame.
If Barcelona win this contest though, they will be doing themselves a huge favor and be giving their morale a big boost as they have not been in their best form so far this season. Imanol Alguacil’s Real Sociedad side have only tasted defeat once in the league this season after 13 games.
Defense
Koeman is expected to make little or no changes in the defensive department for this clash. The only reason however he might want to make a change is if he decides to rest anyone. He has Umtiti, Firpo, and Mingueza available for selection and may well reuse the same defense that earned a clean sheet at Levante.
Midfield
With only one start in the league to his name this season so far, Miralem Pjanic could finally get the nod. The midfielder was impressive against Juventus in the Champions League and may have earned himself a starting role for this fixture. Frenkie de Jong could also be given the nod to continue his fine form.
Attack
More will be expected from the Barca attack by the boss if they want to defeat a defiant Sociedad side. The XI could welcome back Pedri to partner Messi and Griezmann in the attack. Trincao may also start as Dembele and Fati are still out.
Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Dest, Araujo, Lenglet; Alba; Pjanic, De Jong; Messi, Griezmann, Pedri; Braithwaite.