PREVIEW: Getafe vs. FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona will visit one of the most demanding grounds in LaLiga this Saturday, when they take on Getafe at the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez. The Madrid-based side enjoyed their best ever season last year, and claimed their highest final position in the table of all time -as well as a club points record. Nevertheless, Barça have come away with the three points on the last two away trips there.

The Opponents

Although recent results at the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez have been positive for the Blaugrana, they will be taking nothing for granted as they look to earn their first away win of the campaign. Getafe have gone eight games unbeaten in domestic competition, and come into the match off the back of a 3-3 draw against Valencia CF.

The squad for the hosts is similar to that of last season, albeit with the addition of players such as Marc Cucurella (a product of La Masia on loan from FC Barcelona this season) for their assault on the Europa league. Up front, they have the likes of Jaime Mata, Jorge Molina and Ángel Rodriguez to provide the goals.

Getafe start Matchday 7 tenth in the LaLiga table, 3 points behind Barça. They are yet to lose in three home games this term.

First win away from the Camp Nou

The Blaugrana have begun the LaLiga season with a strong home record, but have yet to taste victory on their travels. Thus far, they have lost to Athletic Club (1-0), drawn with Osasuna (2-2) and suffered defeat against Granada (2-0). 

The Squad

The following players have been selected by coach Ernesto Valverde for the match: Ter Stegen, N. Semedo, Piqué, I. Rakitic, Sergio, Todibo, Arthur, Suárez, O. Dembélé, Neto, Lenglet, M. Wague, Griezmann, Aleñá, S. Roberto, F. De Jong, Vidal, Junior and C. Pérez. Out are Messi, Jordi Alba, Umtiti and Ansu Fati.

Valverde's View

"It will be a similar game to those we've played there in previous years. Getafe are a difficult team to beat, with a lot of good attacking players. They usually create chances at home and give you very few opportunities. We need to take a step up away from home. Getafe are going to be very demanding because of their attitude, which demands that you start the game very well."