Ernesto Valverde's three doubts ahead of Atletico clash
Arturo Vidal, Lenglet and Coutinho may start against the Rojiblancos
Ernesto Valverde is preparing for the clash with Atletico Madrid. The Barca coach would have liked to have more time to prepare for the momentous meeting, but still, Valverde is happy with the commitment of his players and they are arriving in a good atmosphere to the Metropolitan Wanda.
Arturo Vidal is one of the most committed. After playing his match with the Chilean national team, Arturo arrived at Madrid on Thursday morning at six AM. Then he went to Barcelona and worked in the session that the team had at 11am. That gesture was welcomed in the dressing room and especially when these days the attitude of some players has been questioned. For that reason and for his good performances in the last few matches, Arturo Vidal is likely to start against Atlético. There will be nobody hurt by that as he could occupy the positioned of the injured and suspended Ivan Rakitic. The only one who may suffer is Sergi Roberto, but he could feature at right-back.
The main doubt that lies in the head of Valverde over who will accompany Piqué. The Umtiti-Piqué duo was the pair most used by the Barça coach since the start of the season. However, the Frenchman's injury left him sidelined and Lenglet appeared. The central defender came this summer from Sevilla with the aim of fighting for a starting place. Therefore, with Umtiti's injury, he took the opportunity with great enthusiasm. Lenglet was good at bringing the ball out. So much so, that few remembered Umtiti's demise. Now, with the two available, Valverde will have to choose. Lenglet seems more likely given Umtiti has been out for nearly two months and needs to get back on the pace.
Finally, who will accompany Leo Messi and Luis Suárez in the attack? Coutinho is already training with the rest of his teammates after injury and may take his place back. Another option is Malcom. The Brazilian has managed to convince Valverde and has surpassed Dembélé in the rotation plans. However, his inclusion may be better as an impact sub to break down Simeone’s wall.
