Barcelona host Galatasaray in Europa League RO16

(Football news) Barcelona, whose season has come down to a top 4 race in the La Liga and the Europa League host Galatasaray in the Round of 16. The Europa League is the Catalan club's only hope of avoiding a trophyless season. Galatasaray on the other hand are having a very difficult season in the Turkish League where they are struggling in 12th place.

Barcelona have won their last four games and haven't lost their 8 games. They are having a good run of games and results for the first time this season. Xavi will be without Gavi who is suspended while Ansu Fati, Samuel Umtiti and Sergi Roberto are yet to recover from their injuries. There will be no surprises in Xavi's system as he will line-up in a 4-3-3. He has to choose 3 out of Ousmane Dembele, Memphis Depay, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Ferran Torres and Adama Traore which will be a tough call. Barcelona haven't registered Dani Alves in the Europa League squad hence Sergino Dest's place in the side is guaranteed.

Barcelona will play their usual possession game and play out from the back and Galatasaray will have to be smart with their pressing. They have to keep the pressure on and at the same time not commit too much. Striker Bafetimbi Gomis will be very important for Galatasaray and his job will make life difficult for Pique and Araujo. La Masia graduate Inaki Pena, who is on loan from Barcelona is expected to start in goal for Galatasaray. He will be expecting a very busy night and it will also be a chance for him to impress his parent club. 

Also read: Benzema hat-trick lights up the Bernabeu in startling comeback vs PSG

SHARE:

Share The Article:

Leave A Reply