Barcelona vs Getafe: Setien’s “gala XI” starting to take shape

Barcelona set for tough clash in battle between the second and third place teams in the table.

Barcelona released their matchday squad ahead of their match against Getafe with both notable absences and inclusions. Riqui Puig was left out but Barça B’s Ronald Araujo and Rey Manaj were included. Back-up keeper Neto also was included after receiving the medical green light.

The concern for Quique Setién after the Betis game was in defense. Clement Lenglet is suspended for this match after picking up two yellow cards and being sent off. Samuel Umtiti finished the match with some discomfort but looks like it was nothing more than just a knock.

This is as close to full-strength as Setién will have given the long-term injuries to some of the more seasoned veterans.

Rey Manaj making the squad was a surprise as he’s a recent newcomer to club.

About his inclusion, Setién said,

Rey Manaj is a footballer who has not been here long but he has his characteristics and can help us. Given the possibility of something happening to a player up top during the game, we have a replacement that can offer things and that’s why he was on the list, like Abel Ruiz and others were at the time.

Expected Starting XI (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre ter Stegen
Right-back: Nelson Semedo
Center-back (right): Gerard Pique
Center-back (left): Samuel Umtiti
Left-back: Jordi Alba
Midfielder (right): Arturo Vidal
Central midfielder: Sergio Busquets
Midfielder (left): Frenkie de Jong
Right-winger: Lionel Messi
Center forward: Antoine Griezmann
Left-winger: Ansu Fati

Gerard Pique will be back after serving his one-game suspension and Samuel Umtiti is likely to be his partner at the back. If Umtiti can’t go, then Ronald Araujo would take his place.

Barcelona played Getafe on the road earlier this season. Luis Suarez and Junior Firpo scored to give them a 2-0 win. Getafe have been the surprise team of the season and are on a good streak having won four of their last five games.

Leading up the Clasico, every league match is going to feel like a must-win if Barcelona want to keep pace with Real Madrid.

While the Catalans are the favorites since the match is at the Camp Nou, Getafe won’t make it easy as they want to cement their place in the top four and perhaps make it to the Champions League.