Barcelona lost ground in the La Liga title race after they could manage only a 0-0 against Malaga at home during the weekend and the mood within the Spanish champions’ camp has been deflated as a result.
Now Barcelona turn their attention to matters in the Champions League with a clash against Celtic up next and although the Catalan giants are very close to sealing a place in the next round of the competition, one can be sure that manager Luis Enrique will be demanding a win on the night.
Here is the strongest possible Barcelona lineup for the clash against Celtic –
Goalkeeper
Marc-Andre Ter Stegen had very little to do during the clash against Malaga and it remains to be seen as to how busy the German international will be against Celtic.
Celtic do possess a number of dangerous attacking players in their squad and Ter Stegen certainly cannot afford to be complacent during the encounter.
Defence
Despite returning to full fitness, Jordi Alba did not start against Malaga and now there is a strong possibility that the Spaniard will be doing so against Celtic.
Lucas Digne is likely to be dropped in favour of Alba while the rest of the backline should consist of Gerard Pique, Javier Mascherano and Sergi Roberto.
The likes of Jeremy Mathieu and Samuel Umtiti are still struggling with injury problems at the moment and the duo look set to miss out.
Midfield
Ivan Rakitic was rested against Malaga and the Croatian international looks a certainty to start on Wednesday night while Sergio Busquets and Denis Suarez are set to complete the midfield lineup for Barcelona.
Andre Gomes remains an option to choose from for Enrique but veteran Andres Iniesta is still struggling with injury and looks unlikely to be featuring.
Attack
Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez both absent during the encounter against Malaga and it was clear to see that Barcelona missed the duo.
Suarez will be back against Celtic following his suspension but there are doubts regarding Messi due to his fitness problems. Paco Alcacer looks set to drop to the bench to make way for Suarez while Arda Turan will start if Messi is missing once again.
