Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Barcelona team news: Predicted Barcelona line up vs Villarreal – Key men doubtful
BARCELONA are missing several important first-team stars ahead of their La Liga clash with Villarreal on Sunday (7.45pm).
Who will start for Barcelona when they take on Villarreal?
Ernesto Valverde’s side are looking to continue their unbeaten run in La Liga when they visit Villarreal, but will have to do so without a number of key men.
Lionel Messi was benched for the Champions League win over Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday - but he is expected to return to the starting XI.
However Barcelona, who are five points clear of Valencia at the top of the table, could be without both Andres Iniesta and Javier Mascherano for their upcoming match.
The duo are currently recovering from knocks and face a race to be fit in time for this weekend’s clash, while Samuel Umtiti is definitely sidelined with a hamstring problem.
The Frenchman joins Ousmane Dembele and Rafinha on the treatment table as the pair continue their rehabilitation from long-term injuries.
Take a look through the gallery above to see how Barcelona could line up against Villarreal.