Barcelona predicted lineup vs Atletico Madrid - La Liga
- Barcelona travel to the capital to face Atletico Madrid this Sunday
- Xavi's side currently unbeaten in nine games since heavy defeat against Villarreal
- Injuries in midfield could prove decisive at the Metropolitano
Barcelona are looking to make it ten games unbeaten on Sunday when they travel to Atletico Madrid in La Liga.
Xavi's side have been in much improved form in recent weeks, with the announcement of his departure at the end of the season having seemingly lifted the weight of pressure off Barcelona's shoulders. The Catalan side qualified for the Champions League quarter-final midweek after beating Napoli and have risen to third in the La Liga table.
However, the Spanish coach still has a number of injuries to deal with ahead of Sunday's match-up, with some huge absentees in midfield in particular.
Here is how Barcelona could line up at the Metropolitano Stadium.
Barcelona predicted lineup vs Atletico Madrid (4-3-3)
GK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen - The stopper has kept three clean sheets in his previous three La Liga outings and is an unrivalled starter for Xavi's side.
RB: Jules Kounde - While traditionally a centre-half, Kounde has often been utilised as a right-back this season. The Frenchman hasn't been flawless in the role, but put in an impressive display up against Khvicha Kvaratskhelia midweek.
CB: Ronald Araujo - The Uruguayan has little competition for his place at present and will be starting up against the tricky Antoine Griezmann and Alvaro Morata this Sunday - where he is sure to be put through his paces.
CB: Pau Cubarsi - The youngster made an enormous impression against Napoli midweek and kept Victor Osimhen quiet. At just 17, he has immense potential, and will only get better with age.
LB: Joao Cancelo - With Alejandro Balde sidelined and Marcos Alonso a doubt, Cancelo becomes the obvious selection at left-back. The versatile defender even managed a goal against Napoli.
CM: Fermin Lopez - The midfielder has profited from a number of injuries in the engine room and has thrived for Barca when called upon this season. Another goal and impressive display midweek means he should retain his starting position.
CM: Andreas Christensen - With defensive midfield options lacking, the Dane has been used as a number six in recent weeks. He hasn't been remarkable in the role, but is a useful solution for Xavi.
CM: Ilkay Gundogan - The 33-year-old has been largely sound for Barca this season since his summer move and offers some much-needed experience in central areas.
RW: Lamine Yamal - The teenager continues to dazzle with his electric displays, as do La Masia with their sensational production line. A bundle of energy and will look to exploit Atletico's wing-backs.
ST: Robert Lewandowski - The Polish striker remains relentless in his pursuit of goals and could be the difference-maker in what is likely to be a tight affair this weekend.
LW: Raphinha - Has often flattered to deceive in Catalonia, but he was impressive midweek and may keep Joao Felix out of the starting lineup against his parent club.