FC Barcelona will make some important squad rotations as they look to end the group stage of the UEFA Champions League on a positive note when they entertain Borussia Monchengladbach in the Camp Nou on Tuesday night.
The disappointment of Sergio Ramos’ last minute equalizer in Saturday’s Classico against Real Madrid was palpable in Barcelona on Sunday, but there is no time for disappointment at the Camp Nou, indeed coach Luis Enrique can use the Borussia game to rest key players and give game time to others.
Barca are already assured of qualifying from their group as group winners and as such Tuesday offers a chance to rest some tired legs, while bringing other players up to speed.
Neymar misses the game through suspension and Enrique will give former Valencia striker, Paco Alcacar another chance to score his first goal for the club.
Meanwhile following his impressive 30 minutes after returning from injury in the last half hour of the Classico, Andres Iniesta will be given the chance to build up match fitness ahead of the weekend trip to play Osasuna.
Rafinha or Denis Suarez could also be given the chance to stake a place in midfield ahead of Ivan Rakitic, who has been out of sorts of late.
Samuel Umtiti will also start as he also looks to return to full fitness, although it is not clear whether Gerard Pique will be his partner in central defense, or whether young defender Marlon will be given a chance to impress following a series of convincing displays for the Barcelona B-team.
Barca can count themselves slightly unlucky not to have beaten Madrid on Saturday, but the fact is the side is still underperforming, with their traditional flowing football appearing only in fits and starts. Enrique needs Iniesta back to his best if the Champions are to recover both their confidence and their style.
