Barcelona will look to continue their red-hot form and move to the top of the table when they welcome Rayo Vallecano on Monday.
The 4-1 drubbing of Sevilla last week extended their glorious run since the start of the year, going unbeaten in their last 11 games while producing wins with aplomb.
The Catalan giants have also netted a whopping amount of 41 goals in that run, which also featured a handful of games where they scored four or more goals.
While their form in La Liga was criticised for the unnecessary slip-ups – which allowed Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid to overtake them, Barcelona have now found their mojo back with three wins on the trot.
Trailing arch-rivals Real Madrid only by two points and Atletico Madrid by one point, the Blaugrana have a great chance to reclaim their place at the summit this Monday.
Hansi Flick’s men have been ruthless in the attack, mauling most of the defences that stood in their way. They will now look to make Rayo Vallecano as their next casualty.
However, it wouldn’t be plain sailing for the hosts, as Vallecano have been the league’s surprise package this season. They have punched above their weight with their impressive consistency and are currently sitting sixth in the table. Having tasted no defeat in their last eight games, including the 3-3 draw against Real Madrid, Vallecano will try to spoil Barcelona’s title ambitions.
Team News
Fermin Lopez will be unavailable through suspension after receiving a red card against Sevilla. Meanwhile, Ronald Araujo’s participation is also doubtful after coming off injured during the game against Sevilla. However, the severity of the issue has been shrugged off.
Predicted Barcelona line-up vs Rayo Vallecano
Goalkeeper
Wojciech Szczesny will keep his place between the sticks, having earned the trust of Hansi Flick with his impressive performances.
Defence
With Araujo doubtful for the clash, Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi are expected to be the centre-back pairing, while Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde will continue to be the full-backs.
Midfield
Frenkie de Jong should retain his place in the X1 due to his brilliant upturn in form. Meanwhile, Pedri and Gavi should complete the midfield, with the latter featuring as the No.10
Attack
Hansi Flick should rely on Lamine Yamal and Raphinha as his go-to wingers, with both enjoying a rich vein of form this term. Ferran Torres’ resurgence warrants him a place in X1 to lead the line, but Robert Lewandowski is expected to be preferred over him.
