The Barcelona lineup that should start against Paris Saint-Germain
By Mitch Wilks
Barcelona return to Champions League action on Tuesday night when they welcome Paris Saint-Germain to Camp Nou for the first leg of their round of 16 tie.
The mammoth clash comes early on in the knockout stages and means a huge side is going to be eliminated early on. Barcelona haven't won the Champions League since 2015 but, despite a poor domestic season that has been marred by the uncertainty of Lionel Messi's future, have found a new lease of life in recent weeks.
It's taken some searching but Ronald Koeman has found a winning formula in 2021, and Barça have lost just once in their last six games in all competitions. There is still work to do, however, and PSG will be no pushovers.
Here is who could, and should, feature for La Blaugrana.
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Marc-Andre ter Stegen (GK) - Ter Stegen was a part of the last Barcelona squad to win the Champions League and is in inspired form currently.
Sergino Dest (RB) - Dest's return from injury has proven a timely one. He comes into the XI ahead of Oscar Mingueza for a huge game.
Samuel Umtiti (CB) - Umtiti starts with Ronald Araujo still nursing an ankle injury.
Clement Lenglet (CB) - Fellow Frenchman Lenglet occupies the spot next to him, though he pair need to be at their best in order to convince Koeman and Barcelona fans that they are actually up to scratch.
Jordi Alba (LB) - The senior head in defence, Alba occupies left back and will be expected to get forward to provide the attacking overlap.
2. Midfielders
Sergio Busquets (DM) - Busquets has endured a tough season but has improved lately. In a game as big as this, experience is everything.
Frenkie de Jong (CM) - The Dutchman has had to do shifts as an unorthodox centre back to cover for injuries, but returns to midfield in this one.
Miralem Pjanic (CM) - There are shouts to give youngster Pedri or Riqui Puig the nod against PSG, but Pjanic again provides experience and is the safer pair of hands for Koeman. Less risk.
3. Forwards
Ousmane Dembele (RW) - When not injured, Ousmane Dembele is a seriously effective footballer. He has been at his best in recent weeks and now has the chance to prove himself on the big stage.
Lionel Messi (ST) - Linked with a move to PSG with his contract situation no clearer, Messi won't let that deter him from playing a blinder. Four goals and an assist in his last three league games; he's just getting warmed up.
Antoine Griezmann (LW) - After a disappointing start to his Barcelona career, Griezmann has upped his productivity and output of late. Now a key cog in the machine, the clash with PSG could be where he really sparks into life.
