The wind of doubt is still in the air of Barcelona. Their fans still feel unsure about the management’s decision to appoint them to replace Ernesto Valverde. This weekend, Setien will have to prove again that he deserves his current post. Blaugrana will be visiting Estadio Mestalla to take on Valencia, which is still stuck on the 7th of the table. It will be a tricky match for Lionel Messi and Co.
Valencia and Barcelona Previous Matches
Los Ches had a shocking defeat last weekend. They were hammered 1-4 by the newly promoted team, Mallorca. Antonio Rallo opened the score sheet followed by Ante Budimir’s brace. The latter also provided an assist for Mallorca’s last goal by Dani Rodriguez. Albert Celades’ men could only net a consolation goal by Ferran Torres almost at the end of the game.
Meanwhile, Setien’s debut was not really that impressive. They did win over Granada but only by one goal difference plus had to wait till Granada lost one of their players due to being sent off. Once again Messi saved the day from another disappointment for the home fans with the only goal of the match.
Possible Tactics
The former Barcelona and Real Madrid’s player in late 90s and early 2000s era, Albert Celades always opts for 4-4-2 formation. He relies on the Uruguayan top scorer of the club, Maxi Gomez.
His senior counterpart, Quique Setien tends to employ his favourite formation during his time in Real Betis, 3-1-4-2. He counts on Messi and Griezmann as the frontman duo supported by Arturo Vidal and Ivan Rakitic or Frankie De Jong in the midfield.
Players to Watch
Los Ches has some key figures in the current squad besides Maxi Gomez. There are Rodrigo Moreno the top assist provider, the captain Dani Parejo and the Danish wing-back, Daniel Wass.
In Blaugarana, Messi is certainly the inevitable saviour of the team with his fourteen goals and six assists. Their new expected star, Antoine Griezmann still only manages to score seven goals and four assists so far. Another notable one is the second captain, Sergio Busquets.
Valencia vs Barcelona Prediction
Valencia has not been at their best lately. This could be a trouble for Dani Parejo and Co. If Setien could not take this opportunity to secure three points here, it would be a shame as losing points is not an option in the title race against Real Madrid.
Betting Odds
Quique Setien’s men are still considered to be the favourite. They are backed to win at 1.60, whereas the draw result is at 4.50. the host’s win market is only at 4.70.
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