Valencia vs FC Barcelona: The official lineups are out

Two days after Real Madrid's defeat at Betis on Friday (0-1), FC Barcelona has the opportunity this Sunday to take their first three points lead over their rivals at the top of LaLiga.

Hansi Flick's men travel to face Valencia, who are still searching for their first win of the season (1 draw, 2 losses).

The highlight of Hansi Flick's starting lineup is undoubtedly Rodri's first start for his new Catalan club. The former Manchester City player lines up alongside Pedri in the German coach's traditional 4-2-3-1 formation, behind a well-established attacking unit featuring Yamal and Gordon (LaLiga's top assist provider) on the wings and Raphinha (joint top scorer) up front, supported by Fermin.

For Valencia, coach Carlos Corberán has opted for a 5-3-2 formation, clearly signaling his intentions. The aim is to stifle Yamal and Gordon's runs down the flanks while strengthening the central defense, with former Lyon player Mouctar Diakhaby wearing the captain's armband. Also of note is Harvey Elliott's presence on the bench, looking to revive his career in Spain after a disappointing spell at Aston Villa last season and now on loan again from Liverpool.

Official lineups:

Valencia: Dimitrievski — Maffeo, Diakhaby, Pepelu, Arnau Martínez, Jesús Vázquez — Ugrinić, A. Dieng, Javi Guerra — A. Danjuma, David Otorbi.

Barça: Joan Garcia, Eric, Cubarsí, Martín, Espart, Pedri, Rodri, Fermín, Yamal, Raphinha, Gordon

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.