Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong in yellow danger

Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong in yellow danger

Messi / | sport

The duo are at risk of a ban if they get booked in the near future

After Barcelona’s epic Copa comeback against Sevilla they are now setting their sights on the La Liga title race, where they have to keep pace with Atletico Madrid. No slip ups are acceptable, so small details must be taken care of - including the suspension issue.

Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong, two key players, have both been booked four times this season. If they see another yellow against Osasuna, they will be out for the clash at home against Huesca next week, effectively clearing them ahead of the Clasico.

The most sensible thing to do might be to make sure they don’t both miss the same game. Huesca seems like a good game to miss but they are fighting for their lives - Barca have already suffered against minnows Cadiz.

After Huesca the Catalans face Real Sociedad in San Sebastian, a hugely difficult game. Following that it’s Real Valladolid at Camp Nou, which might be a good game to miss. Messi has a much greater ability to control the situation because as a midfielder Frenkie will often have to make tackles and cut out danger, which could lead to yellows.

After the clash with Valladolid comes the Clasico and by then the Barcelona duo ought to be ‘clean’. If not, then Koeman may consider resting them to ensure they are not banned for the Real Madrid battle.

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