Barcelona – Valladolid Preview and prediction
When Barcelona’s season resumes on Sunday night against Real Valladolid at home, they will be attempting to make it two straight triumphs in La Liga.
Real Valladolid earned an outstanding point at Sevilla in their most recent match on August 19 while the Catalan team defeated Real Sociedad 4-1 in the league last weekend.
Barcelona was restricted to a scoreless draw by Rayo Vallecano on the opening weekend of the La Liga season, but they managed to pick up their first three points at Real Sociedad last time out, defeating the White and Blues 4-1.
Robert Lewandowski netted twice in the clash at Reale Arena, while Ousmane Dembele and Ansu Fati were also on the scoresheet, with the Catalan outfit sending out a message to the rest of the division.
Barcelona, who drew 3-3 with Manchester City in a friendly on Wednesday evening, will now be bidding to make it seven points from their opening three La Liga games ahead of a trip to Sevilla at the start of September.
Xavi’s side finished 13 points behind La Liga champions Real Madrid last season, but they have had a standout summer transfer market, and more additions cannot be ruled out before the end of the window.
Jules Kounde could make his official debut for Barcelona on Sunday night thanks to Barcelona’s success in registering him for this weekend’s game.
Xavi might resist the urge to start the defender right away, but there will likely be alterations from the lineup that faced Real Sociedad, with Raphinha and Jordi Alba perhaps entering the lineup.
Frenkie de Jong might move to the bench because Sergio Busquets, who missed the match against Celta due to suspension, is also expected to make a comeback.
As a result of his injury issues, Fati started with a goal off the bench against Real Sociedad, but his fitness is being closely watched and he is set to start on the bench once more.
Barcelona need to back up their strong win over Real Sociedad last time out with another victory, and we are fully expecting Xavi’s side to triumph here. Real Valladolid have quality and are capable of causing problems, but Barcelona should have too much for their opponents at Camp Nou.
Value Bet: Home Win & 1.5
Possible correct score: Barcelona 2 -1 Valladolid