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Barcelona team news: Predicted Barcelona line up vs Real Valladolid – Coutinho returns
BARCELONA are set to welcome Philippe Coutinho back to their starting XI when they face Real Valladolid at the Estadio Josa Zorrilla on Saturday (9.15pm).
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Barcelona are looking to continue their winning start to the new La Liga season when they travel to Valladolid this weekend.
Ernesto Valverde’s side got their campaign off to a solid start with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Deportivo Alaves in their opening match at the Nou Camp.
Philippe Coutinho’s strike and a brace from Lionel Messi secured all three points for the Catalan outfit, providing a perfect beginning to their title defence.
Barca now look set to welcome Brazilian Coutinho back to their starting XI after the midfielder was eased back into the action from the bench last week.
Coutinho had been omitted from the starting line-up after missing much of pre-season due to his post-World Cup holiday.
However, the 26-year-old has now returned to full fitness and could displace Nelson Semedo in Valverde’s side.
The Portuguese defender is expected to make way with Sergi Roberto – who started in midfield against Alaves – returning to right-back.
Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic are expected to join Coutinho in midfield, while Ousmane Dembele will either be stationed on the left wing or as a left forward depending on Barcelona’s formation.
Valverde switched between a traditional 4-4-2 and a more attacking 4-3-3 last season, depending on personnel available.
Regarding injuries, Sergi Samper is out after an ankle sprain while Denis Suarez is also a doubt.
Jasper Cillessen joins them on the sidelines after picking up a rib injury during training, but the rest of the squad has a clean bill of health.
Valladolid battled to a draw in their opening match against Girona but are expected to struggle after their promotion from the Segunda Division.