Dest to return - How Barcelona could line up against Villarr

1:52pm on Saturday 24th April 2021
By Emmet Gates

Ronald Koeman is likely to retain most of the same starting XI that featured in the 5-2 win against Getafe last weekend.

The Blaugrana have won four from their last five league games, and also won the Copa del Rey, beating Athletic Bilbao 4-0.

Barca boss Koeman has some long term injuries, such as Ansu Fati and Philippe Coutinho, whilst Martin Braithwaite is also out.

In goal, Marc Ter Stegen will retain his place. The German goalkeeper will be protected by Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet, Oscar Minguezza.

In Koeman's new five-man midfield, Koeman is likely to start Frenkie de Jong, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, Pedri - all four of whom started in the win against Getafe - and a returning Sergino Dest.

In attack, Ousmane Dembele is in contention for a start, but it's thought that the Frenchman will likely come off from the bench at some stage in the game.

Lionel Messi and Antione Griezmann will lead the line for Barcelona, both scored in the Getafe win, with Messi netting a brace.

Barcelona currently sit third in the Spanish table, five points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, who also have a game in hand. So they can ill afford any further slip ups.

Messi is Barca's top scorer this season, with 33 goals in all competitions.