Ernesto Valverde's big dilemma ahead of the Clasico on Saturday
Barça's right side is the big unknown going into the game
The coach has a number of options, which will he choose?
The right flank has been Barcelona's most rotated this season. The injury to Ousmane Dembele, the number of midfielders in the squad and the lack of a consistent right-back have contributed to the changes.
Therefore, it's one of the unknowns going into the Clasico against Real Madrid on Saturday. At right-back, Sergi Roberto seems to have emerged, recently, as the first choice. But that's not to say he will definitely start at the Bernabeu.
One possibility which Valverde likes in these type of games is to line up Nelson Semedo, not used against Deportivo, and Roberto. In the case of the former, he would be the full-back, with the latter ahead of him as the third forward (or fourth midfielder).
Madrid's characteristics would invite the thought that Semedo could play. Barça will need players with pace.
The Portuguese player is one of the quickest in the squad and has a great capacity to get up and down. Remember that there is no Samuel Umtiti and everything suggests Thomas Vermaelen will start alongside Gerard Pique.
If Valverde picks Semedo & Sergi Roberto, Barça will be more prepared to stop the Madrid attack on the left
Semedo's speed seems more necessary than ever due to the profile of the two Barça centre-backs and because Madrid will surely look to get in behind. Whether through Isco or Gareth Bale (and Marcelo), Zinedine Zidane's left side will be a constant threat.
So it will not be a surprise if Roberto is the fourth central midfielder. Valverde has been prudent in these games this season. Keeping the lines together is one of his priorities.
THE Paulinho DOUBT
Another option is Sergi Roberto as right-back and Paulinho as a false forward. In this case, Semedo would not start. Ter Stegen, Alba, Pique, Rakitic, Busquets, Iniesta, Messi and Suarez are fixed starters.
The profile of the game -- it will be up and down -- fits well with Paulinho, a player who attacks the space well.
The Brazilian's capacity to arrive late in the box could be a powerful weapon for Barça and as the fourth midfielder he could also involve himself in the build-up play, as he did for the third goal against Deportivo La Coruña.
The Brazilian's play between the lines could damage Madrid in an open game
Less likely is a start for Andre Gomes, although Valverde has sometimes used him, such as in the Super Cup at the Bernabeu or at the Wanda against Atletico. Let's see if he repeats the surprise.
In defence, the only doubt is if Vermaelen does keep his place in the side with Javier Mascherano fit again. The Argentine's situation, heading out of the club to China, and the Belgian's form suggest he will.
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