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#2 Cover for Coutinho
It cannot be denied that Barcelona missed Coutinho. The Brazilian picked up a knock against Inter midweek and is expected to be absent for the next three weeks. Coutinho was the best player against Inter and was instrumental for Barca during the period where Messi was out injured. While his injury was a blow, the return of the Magician could have staved off any fears Valverde might have had.
Malcolm was given the chance to cement his place in the left side after he opened his account for his Barca career against Inter. Even though he showed glimpses of his potential in the first ten minutes, he faded away as the game went on. He was hauled off before the hour mark as he failed to make his chance count. With Coutinho unlikely to be fit against Athletico Madrid, Valverde will have to decide if he will give Malcolm another run or give the dropped Dembele to prove his worth again. The Barca manager could also pick Rafinha or Denis Suarez for a more creative influence.
#3 Less pressure on Messi
Losing Coutinho to injury was counteracted by the returning Lionel Messi. Even though the Barca captain found the net twice, he seemed unable to control the match like he usually does. Messi did showcase a few blistering runs in the middle of the park to show he is back. But one cannot help think if Valverde rushed the Argentine into the action a bit too soon.
Real Betis could have been the ideal opponent for Messi to warm up before the all-important clash against Athletico. The match was supposed to be one in which Messi was eased into the action. But it quickly became a match were the Blaugrana looked up at their captain to drag them out of trouble. Barca has to win against the Rojiblancos to protect their lead in the summit of the La Liga table. And while the fans will again look at their captain to provide the inspiration, Valverde will have to make sure the rest of the players shoulder some of the pressure.
