The moment of truth has arrived for Barcelona. Wednesday's game at Old Trafford is the perfect scenario to show that their rotations have been for a reason. Barça have been knocked out of the Champions League in the quarterfinals in the last three seasons and they're obsessed by beating Manchester United and taking another step towards the final at the Wanda.
Therefore, Ernesto Valverde will pick his Gala XI, the team he has always opted for in big games. With certain nuances due to injuires or suspensions, the Barça coach will pick the same side which basically wrapped up La Liga against Atletico Madrid at the weekend.
There are no doubts in goal. Marc-Andre Ter Stegen is, along with Juventus' Szczesny, the goalkeeper who's conceded the fewest goals in the Champions League this season. In defence, everything suggests Sergi Roberto will continue at right-back, with Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet and Jordi Alba completing the back four. They will face Lukaku's strength and Rashford's pace.
ARTHUR
In midfield, Busquets and Rakitic are certainties. Most likely to join them us Arthur. Arturo Vidal is also an option but in these type of games Valverde's always preferred the Brazilian's ability on the ball. One of Arthur's best games in a Barça shirt came in England, against Tottenham at Wembley.
With Dembele still not fully fit (he will travel to Manchester without medical clearance), it will be Philippe Coutinho who completes the attack with Suarez and Messi. The Brazilian's taken steps forward in recent weeks and his versatility will allow Vavlerde to switch between 4-4-2 and 4-3-3 if he feels the need.
BENCH
Barça will have options on the bench: Vidal and Aleña can come on in midfield and Malcom and Dembele, if passed fit, offer pace in attack. Cillessen, Semedo and Umtiti are also good replacements if needed further back.
Source: Sport / Javier Giraldo