With Rakitic out, this could be Arturo Vidal's time to shine
Ivan Rakitic's injury could see the Chilean be handed a starting role at FC Barcelona
This is the big opportunity Arturo Vidal has been waiting for. With Ivan Rakitic injured, it could open the door for Vidal to stake his claim for a starting spot at FC Barcelona. The Croatian has been involved in 17 matches this season (12 LaLiga, 4 Champions League and Spanish Super Cup final) and that's made it difficult for Vidal to force his way into Valverde's plans.
The injury to Rakitic might hand Vidal a start in one of the biggest matches of the season. Barça head to the Wanda Metropolitano to face a resurgent Atletico Madrid following the international break. Up to this point Vidal has only started three matches as a Barcelona player: twice in LaLiga and once in the Copa del Rey.
If he starts against Atletico it'll be Vidal's 10th appearance for the club. A Vidal who, after a tricky start which was dominated by social media posts, has calmed down and changed his role. He's now a dependable member of Valverde's squad and has become a key option off the bench recently.
Vidal will compete alongside Denis Suarez, Carles Aleña and Rafinha for a starting spot in a side which is also missing Coutinho as well as Rakitic.
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