Xavi set to start La Masia duo as fullbacks against Real Valladolid

The likely registration of Jules Kounde this week has lifted the mood in the Barcelona camp as they gear up for a contest against Real Valladolid on Sunday.

There are going to be a few changes in personnel in this encounter, with Kounde being a strong contender for a start.

According to Diario AS, Xavi is set to make some interesting decisions in the fullback department as well, with Alejandro Balde and Sergi Roberto primed to start.

Balde came into the fore during Barcelona’s last league game against Real Sociedad. The youngster made a positive impression on the coach and could be rewarded with another start at left-back, ahead of veteran Jordi Alba.

Balde is coming on the back of a strong pre-season campaign and his promising performances for the first-team could be a major positive for Barcelona, who are actively scouring the market for a left-back in this final week of the transfer market.

Meanwhile, on the opposite flank, Sergi Roberto could be handed a start as Xavi looks to return to a conventional back four.

While many would expect Sergino Dest to start in the wider defensive role, his exclusion is perhaps not a surprise either as Xavi is not a great fan of the American international. As such, Roberto remains the favourite to start.

The experienced utility man did start in the midweek friendly against Manchester City. His composure, technical prowess and understanding of Xavi’s system could help him maintain balance out wide, especially as Balde looks to cause terror on the opposite flank.

At the same time, it would be pivotal for these two fullbacks to maintain defensive solidity as well. That is where both the players could be tested as Real Valladolid attackers look to catch Barça on the break.