Luis Enrique leaves Ivan Rakitic out of Barça squad for Villarreal clash
The Croatian midfielder is the surprise omission from the 18-man squad for the game at El Madrigal
FC Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic is the big absentee from the list of players called up by Luis Enrique for the game against Villarreal at El Madrigal, the 17th game of the league season.
The Barça coach revealed the 18 players who will travel to Castellon for the game, with the Croatian international left out for technical reasons after a string of disappointing displays this season.
In recent weeks, Rakitic's influence has decreased. In fact, it will be the third consecutive league game he's missed, having been on the bench for the games against Osasuna and Espanyol.
As well as the Croatian, Aleix Vidal and Jeremy Mathieu have also been left out. Meanwhile, Jasper Cillessen is still missing due to an injury.
Denis Suarez, however, does return to the squad after missing the Copa del Rey game against Athletic Club. The midfielder turned 23 earlier this week and is returning to his former club on Sunday.
Here is the squad: Ter Stegen, Masip, Piqué, Sergio, Denis Suárez, Arda, A. Iniesta, Suárez, Messi, Neymar Jr, Rafinha, Mascherano, Paco Alcácer, Jordi Alba, Digne, Sergi Roberto, André Gomes y Umtiti.
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