Barcelona coming off an impressive win against Villarreal
Coming off an impressive win against Villarreal, Barcelona now face their next tough challenge of a hectic October. They are going head-to-head against Athletic Club, who, under a certain Ernesto Valverde, are through to a flying start in the league.
Xavi is not taking any chances against an impressive Bilbao, and has selected a strong starting lineup for the outing.
Ousmane Dembele returns to the team, flanked on the right side of an attacking trident. Robert Lewandowski is in his aid as the centre-forward, but surprisingly, Gavi rounds off the attack on the left side.
In midfield, Sergio Busquets gets his chance after being dropped against the Yellow Submarines. Frenkie de Jong retains his place, but is playing centrally alongside Pedri this time.
Alejandro Balde has played his best football in the league, and takes his spot back from Jordi Alba, who assisted the opener on Thursday. Sergi Roberto continues on the right side, but there is one change in central defence.
Marcos Alonso has been replaced by Eric Garcia, who has arguably been Barcelona’s best centre-back this season. Jules Kounde is the other CB in the quartet. They will be screening Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
[Source: barcauniversal.com]