Barça face Real Sociedad test with De Jong back in the fold
Barcelona head to San Sebastián with Frenkie de Jong returning from suspension as Hansi Flick's men look to maintain their impressive form against La Real.
Barcelona’s purple patch faces a proper examination this Sunday as they travel to the always tricky Reale Arena to face Real Sociedad in La Liga’s matchday 20.
Team News
Hansi Flick’s side are flying at the moment, but will need to shuffle the pack after Thursday’s Copa del Rey clash against Racing Santander. The German gaffer will welcome back Frenkie de Jong, who was having a right mare after seeing red in the Supercopa final against Real Madrid.
The injury list remains a bit of a headache for Barça:
- Long-term absentees Gavi and Christensen remain sidelined, though the Andalusian midfielder is approaching the final stages of his recovery from meniscus surgery
- Raphinha trained separately in the gym on Saturday, but should be available for selection, even if he’s unlikely to start
On the other side of the coin, Real Sociedad boss Imanol Alguacil has his own selection troubles with Rupérez, Yangel Herrera, Zakharyan and Óskarsson all in the treatment room.
Likely Line-ups
Real Sociedad (probable): Remiro; Aramburu, Jon Martín, Caleta-Car, Sergio Gómez; Turrientes, Soler; Kubo, Brais Méndez, Guedes; Oyarzabal
Barcelona (probable): Joan García; Koundé, Cubarsí, Eric García, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Lamine Yamal, Fermín, Rashford; Ferran Torres
What to Expect
Barça will be looking to maintain their impressive momentum with what would be a statement victory in the Basque Country. With De Jong returning to the engine room and Flick likely to field a strong XI after the midweek rotations, the Catalans should have enough quality to trouble La Real’s backline.
Take-home point? This won’t be a cake walk. Real Sociedad at home are always a tough proposition, and with talents like Kubo and Oyarzabal in their ranks, they’ll fancy their chances of causing an upset. Could be a proper Bobby Dazzler of a match this one.