Ousmane Dembélé had been out of the starting eleven for more than a month. Since last January 12, when Barcelona played the Spanish Super Cup against Real Madrid, that the French striker had been left out of the gala team. Firstly because of the open pulse with the club after his decision not to renew and not accept an exit in the winter market, and secondly, because Xavi wanted to manage his return naturally, without forcing, being aware that the reaction of the Camp Nou It would not be positive at first.
So that, after leaving two games as a substitute (Espanyol and Napoli), his great game in the Europa League has opened the doors for him for Xavi Hernández to give him ownership again. Of course, the great victim of this decision has been Adama Traoré, who despite completing three great games, will start the game from the bench.
And it is that Xavi’s attacking bet for the match against Valencia is Dembélé and Ferran on the wings, and Aubameyang as false 9. We must remember that the former City striker returns to what was his home for many years with the stigma of having missed countless opportunities last Thursday.
Ronald Araújo also regains ownership, after overcoming his overload in the soleus of his left leg, who will accompany Eric Garcia in the central axis, as well as Sergiño Dest, who will be located on the right side, to the detriment of Óscar Mingueza, and Sergio Busquets and Gavi, in the midfield, who return to eleven. Who falls from the team is Pedri, who will rest, as well as Nico.