Barcelona travel to San Sebastian tomorrow evening to take on Real Sociedad in their second matchday of the La Liga season.
Xavi Hernandez’s men drew the first 0-0 with Rayo Vallecano at Camp Nou. Despite the array of attacking talent they had at their disposal the Catalan side were unable to break down a stubborn and well-organised opponent – they’ll want a win at Anoeta.
But La Real are a fine side in their own right. They got three points on the board in their opening game of the 2022/23 season by beating Cadiz 1-0 down in Andalusia. They’ll hope for a stirring performance in their first home fixture of the new campaign.
Xavi is expected to remain faithful to the team he chose on the opening day and go with a 4-3-3 shape. Marc-Andre ter Stegen will start in goal behind a back four of Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia and Jordi Alba.
Sergio Busquets is suspended for the tie following his red card against Rayo so new signing Franck Kessie is expected to deputise for him at the base of midfield with Gavi and Pedri either side.
Robert Lewandowski will once again lead the line in search of his debut goal. He’ll be flanked by Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha.
