Barcelona team news: Predicted Barcelona line up vs Alaves – Messi joined by new signings

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Barcelona kick-off their La Liga title defence at home to Deportivo Alaves on Saturday night, with several new arrivals in line to feature. The Catalan giants have been busy in the transfer market this summer with Clement Lenglet, Arthur, Arturo Vidal and Malcom all joining. Manager Ernesto Valverde has already had a look at several of his acquisitions with Barca beating Sevilla in the Spanish Super Cup before seeing off Boca Juniors in the Joan Gamper Trophy earlier this week. While eager to see their new signings in action, Barcelona fans will also be pleased about the return of superstars Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez following disappointing summers at the World Cup. Samuel Umtiti is likely to start on the bench after his triumphant return from Russia, with the Frenchman still easing his way back to full fitness. Lenglet is expected to step in alongside Gerard Pique following the departure of Yerry Mina to Everton, while Sergi Roberto is available after suspension. Meanwhile, only one of Arturo Vidal and Arthur are likely to feature from the start against Alaves with Valverde opting for consistency. Malcom opened his account at the Nou Camp with the opener against Boca Juniors but may miss out with Ousmane Dembele in fine form after his winner against Sevilla.GK – Marc-Andre ter Stegen The undisputed No 1 at the Nou Camp, although the German shared duties between the posts with Jasper Cilessen against Boca Juniors on Wednesday.RB – Sergi Roberto Valverde has a couple of options at right-back, with Nelson Semedo and Roberto appearing evenly matched. While rotation is expected throughout the season, Roberto should get the nod after serving a suspension in the Spanish Super Cup clash against Sevilla.CB – Gerard Pique After announcing his retirement from international football following Spain’s disappointing World Cup, Pique is ready for another assault on the La Liga title and will lead the defence.CB – Clement Lenglet The summer signing from Sevilla is expected to be handed his competitive Barcelona debut for the visit of Alaves. Lenglet, who arrived for around £32million and has a £265m release clause, will be preferred to Umtiti as the World Cup winner eases his way back to full fitness.LB – Jordi Alba A mainstay in the champions’ starting XI since joining in 2012, Alba is an almost certain pick at left-back. However, the Spanish international will need to keep an eye on Juan Miranda this season as the youngster looks to make an impression on the first-team squad.CDM – Sergio Busquets The 30-year-old has made the holding role his own in recent seasons and will provide a solid foundation for the Catalan side’s more adventurous players. However, Valverde could be tempted to hand Arturo Vidal his La Liga debut following a summer move from Bayern Munich.CM – Philippe Coutinho The most likely selection for Valverde, with Coutinho expected to reprise his role from last season in a three-man midfield.CM – Arthur Ivan Rakitic has not had the longest o

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Mary Gonzalez says:

Hi my friend i am spanish

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