Barcelona host Real Sociedad on Sunday as they look to continue their excellent form in LaLiga. Hansi Flick’s side will be aiming to extend their run of straight wins to six in the league against La Real, who have a strong record against Barcelona in recent years.
By Matt Smith
When the two sides met earlier in the season, Real Sociedad secured a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Sheraldo Becker. Their last win at Camp Nou came back in 2023, and they’ll be hoping for a repeat of that result once again.
Flick could receive a defensive boost
Barcelona will be without long-term absentees Marc-André ter Stegen and Marc Bernal, but Flick shouldn’t have any fresh injury troubles to contend with.
Andreas Christensen could return for the home side after recovering from his recent fitness problem. We could see a host of changes from Barcelona after resting key stars such as Ronald Araújo, Gavi, and Robert Lewandowski in the Copa del Rey semi-final last time out.
Raphinha unstoppable for Barcelona
Brazilian winger Raphinha has been a major standout for Barcelona so far this season, contributing 20 goals and assists combined in LaLiga. The former Leeds United man has created a whopping 73 chances, more than any other player in the league.
Only Lewandowski has contributed with more goals and assists combined in LaLiga, while he also has the highest average FotMob rating at 8.04. Raphinha has already surpassed his goals and assists tally from last season and will undoubtedly play a crucial role in Barcelona’s race for the title.
La Real hit with double suspension blow
Real Sociedad will be without both Becker and Takefusa Kubo to face Barcelona with the duo missing the game due to suspension. Igor Zubeldia will be back and available for selection, however, after serving his LaLiga ban in their previous match.
The away side could be without Arsen Zakharyan for the trip to Barcelona after he suffered a minor injury in La Real’s game against Leganés last time out. Jon Pacheco also looks set to miss out.
Zubimendi the enforcer
Although Martin Zubimendi is often known for his quality on the ball, his ability off it can sometimes go underrated. When facing a side of the quality of Barcelona, with La Real likely to have less of the possession, Zubimendi’s defensive side of the game could shine through.
The Spanish midfielder’s numbers when it comes to recoveries, tackles, and winning duels are up there with the best in LaLiga. Although comfortable in possession, Zubimendi can do the dirty side, and that will undoubtedly be imperative if they want to get a result against Barcelona.
Prediction
With Barcelona playing on their own turf, it’s difficult to see past a victory for Flick’s side. Real Sociedad have only conceded on average 0.9 goals per game, fewer than Barcelona, so it should still be a tight affair. We’re going for a 2-1 victory to Barcelona.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
You can follow every game from LaLiga with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, and player ratings. Download the free app here.