How Barcelona could line up against Atletico Madrid | La Liga 2020-21

Barcelona midfielders

Barcelona midfielder Pedri

Sergio Busquets will play as the pivot in Barcelona's midfield. He will have his work cut out against the likes of Koke, Kondogbia and Marcos Llorente. Koeman will expect a strong performance from his veteran midfielder, who has been in good form of late, as Barcelona cannot afford to lose the midfield battle today.

Frenkie De Jong and Pedri will keep their places ahead of Sergio Busquets. De Jong will be tasked with progressing the ball and he will play a crucial role in bringing the wing-backs and the forwards into play. The versatile Dutchman has proved to be key to Barcelona's attack in recent times.

Jordi Alba will be deployed at left wing-back. The Spaniard has been one of Barcelona's most consistent players over the course of the season and has even played in central midfield a number of times this season.

Alba has scored three goals and provided five assists in 31 appearances in La Liga this season and will be tasked with keeping Kieran Tripper at bay today. On the opposite flank, Sergi Roberto is likely to replace Sergino Dest by virtue of his experience in big games.

Barcelona forwards

Villarreal CF v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander

There ought to be no surprises when it comes to Barcelona's forward line. Martin Braithwaite has made his return to the squad from injury but will only come off the bench at best. Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann will start in attack for Barcelona while Ousmane Dembele will most likely be used as an impact-sub.

Lionel Messi has arguably been the best player in the world since the turn of the year and his exploits have been crucial to Barcelona working their way back into the La Liga title race. The Catalans are dependent on him to pull them across the finish line and the stage is set for yet another Lionel Messi masterclass in a big game.

Barcelona have been over-reliant on their forwards for goals in recent weeks but Antoine Griezmann has stepped up to the task in recent times. The Frenchman seems to have kicked into form at just the right time for Barcelona.

Antoine Griezmann has scored five goals and provided an assist in his last five appearances for Barcelona and has been able to maintain a cool head in front of goal. He has looked a lot like the player Barcelona shelled out €120 million to sign and his chemistry with Lionel Messi has evolved over the course of the season.