Barcelona predicted lineup vs Atletico Madrid - La Liga | OneFootball

Barcelona are aiming to become the first side to beat Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano in La Liga this season when they visit the capital on Sunday.

The Catalan behemoths are embroiled in a three-horse title race alongside both Madrid giants and victory this weekend would see them clear an enormous hurdle in their bid to be crowned La Liga champions.

Barca are in exceptional form but securing all three points will not be straightforward against Diego Simeone's scrappers. Only one point separates the sides - albeit La Blaugrana have a game in hand - and Atleti have avoided defeat in both clashes between the teams this term.

Here is how Barca could line up for a pivotal La Liga duel.

Barcelona predicted lineup vs Atletico Madrid (4-2-3-1)

Pau Cubarsi should come back into the starting lineup / Alex Caparros/GettyImages

GK: Wojciech Szczesny - Having dazzled in the first leg of the Champions League last 16 against Benfica, Szczesny somewhat reverted to type during Tuesday's reverse fixture as he allowed Nicolas Otamendi's tame header to breach his goal.

RB: Jules Kounde - Kounde played an important part in Barca's midweek victory over Benfica with his marauding runs but the Frenchman is more likely to be focused on his defensive duties at the Metropolitano.

CB: Ronald Araujo - Araujo has been eased back into the equation after such a lengthy injury layoff earlier this season but he's now featured for over an hour in Barca's last three matches.

CB: Pau Cubarsi - Inigo Martinez may be the only man to lose his starting berth this weekend, with Cubarsi, who was suspended for the clash with Benfica, returning to partner Araujo.

LB: Alejandro Balde - The left-back's lung-busting run forged Barca's third of the evening on Tuesday but he will be offered far less attacking freedom in Madrid against Simeone's stern defensive unit.

DM: Frenkie de Jong - Marc Casado could enter the lineup this weekend but there's every chance that De Jong retains his place in the team. He's started three of the last four outings in all competitions.

DM: Pedri - The midfielder produced a mightily impressive display in the chaotic 4-4 draw with Atleti in the Copa del Rey at the end of last month. One would imagine Barca's metronome will be similarly involved this weekend.

RW: Lamine Yamal - The precocious teenager produced another astounding goal and assist against Benfica on Tuesday - becoming the youngest player in Champions League history to manage such a feat.

AM: Dani Olmo - Gavi has dismissed any exit rumours over a lack of playing time this term and the Spaniard may be benched for compatriot Olmo once again on Sunday. The summer signing has been in impressive form during recent La Liga games.

LW: Raphinha - Raphinha produced two more excellent finishes midweek as he continues his push for the Ballon d'Or. He became the Brazilian to score the most goals in a single Champions League campaign after netting his tenth and 11th against Benfica.

ST: Robert Lewandowski - Two games without a goal is a considerable drought for the prolific Poland international but it would be brave to bet against him adding to his season haul on Sunday. He scored against Atleti in the cup several weeks ago.