Barcelona have been ridiculously dominant in La Liga this season and this fact was further evidenced by the Catalan giants’ 6-0 annihilation of Getafe last weekend.
Now Barcelona have to focus their attention to Europe as they prepare for a clash against Arsenal in the second leg of the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.
Having claimed a 2-0 away victory in the first leg, it is safe to state that Barcelona already have one foot on the Quarter Finals but this does not mean that the defending champions can get complacent and manager Luis Enrique will surely be urging his players not to take things lightly.
Here is the Strongest Possible Barcelona Lineup against Arsenal –
Goalkeeper
Marc-Andre ter Stegen made a host of quality saves during the first leg and his contribution was key in helping Barcelona establish such a healthy advantage.
The German youngster is likely to be tested once again in the return leg and he will surely have to be in top form as even a concession of a single goal will change the complexion of the game.
Defence
Gerard Pique is suspended for the clash after picking up a questionable booking in the first leg and it is likely that Jeremy Mathieu will be coming in for the Spanish international at central defence.
Alongside Mathieu, Javier Mascherano will be starting while the full back positions will be occupied by the ever consistent duo of Jordi Alba and Dani Alves. Thomas Vermaelen, Marc Bartra, Adriano and Aleix Vidal are all available as well if Enrique decides to change things around.
Midfield
Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic are certain to be starting at the middle of the park for Barcelona while Sergio Busquets is likely to come into the side for Sergi Roberto if he is able to shake off a niggle ahead of the clash.
Arda Turan did enjoy a fantastic game during the 6-0 triumph over Getafe during the weekend and he will also surely be in contention to start on the night.
Attack
Luis Suarez was handed a rest during the victory over Getafe but even during his absence, Barcelona had no problems whatsoever in finding the back of the net.
Suarez should return to the lineup for the clash on Wednesday night and him along with Neymar and Lionel Messi will surely cause further havoc on the suspect Arsenal backline.
(4-3-3)
Via – Lineup Builder
