Valladolid and Fútbol Club Barcelona face each other this Saturday at 9:00 PM, in a match corresponding to the 34th round of the Liga EA Sports. The Zorrilla stadium hosts this duel, something that won't happen next year, as the Valladolid team will play in the Liga Hypermotion. You can watch the match on Movistar LaLiga and follow the minute-by-minute updates through our social media @carpetasblaugranas
How Valladolid Arrives
The 'pucela' team was mathematically relegated a couple of weeks ago, although they have felt like a Second Division team for some time. Neither the coaching changes nor the winter reinforcements have managed to reverse the situation, it even seems that Ronaldo will sell the club. The only goal they have left is to try to improve their points record, as they currently hold the second worst in all history with 38-round leagues.
Álvaro Rubio commented in a press conference that the work they have left now is to work to "dignify the club and the fans." Regarding the possible reaction of their fans, he acknowledges that they have done poorly and that "everyone is free to express their opinion." Finally, he confirms that there is no problem with making or not making the guard of honor, as they will do it if it is what needs to be done.
Regarding the line-up, Álvaro Rubio has confirmed the absences of Javi Sánchez, Aidoo, and Henrique, while Hein might be available. There will be some changes compared to those who played against Betis, such as Iván Sánchez in Anuar's position. The Andalusian winger and the African forward, Sylla, are one yellow card away from suspension, so if they receive a yellow card, they won't play next weekend.
How Barça Arrives
The culé squad arrives at this match after that thrilling first leg of the semifinals, which ended 3-3 leaving everything open for the return leg to be played in Italy. However, they must not let themselves go because of what's coming on Tuesday, as the league is not yet closed and a slip-up would complicate it. Additionally, next week there is a new Clásico, which will be very decisive if at the end of the round the 4-point distance from Real Madrid is maintained.
Hans Flick has made it very clear that, although the opponent won't play in the first division next year, you can lose the title in matches like this. Regarding set-piece errors, he comments that they must defend them better, as it's not just a matter of height or physique. Also, he states that their play style is very risky, but he loves it, especially how the team plays as a whole.
Regarding the starting line-up, many rotations are expected to give rest after the tough match against Inter. Up front, Pau Víctor and Ansu Fati could start as starters, accompanied by Fermín or Gavi as a false winger. As an attacking midfielder, we could see Pablo Torre and at the back, Christensen could debut, who already played some minutes in the Champions League, as did Ter Stegen, who will be the starter again.
Match Keys
Raúl Moro, the Blanquivioleta Arrow: the Spanish winger has been the most differential player of the 'pucelano' team. His injuries have not allowed us to see all his potential, a skillful player in one-on-one situations and capable of delivering good crosses from any wing. Flick's team must be careful and keep him under control, as if Valladolid creates danger, it will be because he has the ball.
Set Pieces: Barça has managed to score in several strategic plays this year, the problem has been defending them. Against the Italians, they were outmatched and didn't know how to defend well when there was almost always an extension to the far post. Valladolid has few resources, but with set pieces, everything evens out, and any header can create a goal opportunity.
Letting Go: the result of the Champions League first leg invites players to focus on that return match to be played at the Giuseppe Meazza. Additionally, the opponent doesn't help them focus their efforts on this duel, so they will have to draw energy and desire from wherever to take the 3 points. Besides, a victory would put pressure on Real Madrid, who play against a Celta team fighting for Europe and who almost gave Barça a scare at Montjuïc.
The 'B' Unit: the calendar forces the German coach to make rotations in all lines to avoid injuries like Koundé's. The less frequent players have a golden opportunity to convince Flick that they can be important, as they will be responsible for bringing the league championship closer. After this round, only four more will remain, or in other words, only 16 points in play with a Clásico still to be played.