Barcelona captain could start in place of summer signing against Sevilla

Barcelona’s terrific winning momentum came to a halt when they drew 2-2 with Mallorca recently.

The Catalans will now look to regain that momentum when they play hosts to Sevilla this weekend.

Heading into this encounter, Xavi Hernandez has a decision to make, in terms of team selection, especially in the defensive department.

Sergi Roberto to play vs Sevilla

According to Toni Juanmarti on SPORT, one of the changes we can witness in Barça’s upcoming game against Sevilla is the introduction of Sergi Roberto.

The veteran star could operate as a right-back against Sevilla, with Joao Cancelo likely to be rested for the Champions League game against FC Porto next week.

Cancelo, after all, has played almost every match since joining Barcelona on transfer deadline day and requires a breather.

In his stead, Roberto could come into the fray. The Spaniard has a great amount of experience playing as a right-back and shouldn’t find any problem doing so this weekend.

Other possible alterations

Joao Cancelo is not the only defender likely to be rested against Sevilla this weekend.

The report suggests Xavi may also hand Ronald Araujo a breather after the Uruguayan international played 90 minutes against Mallorca. Joao Felix could also be given a breather.

Should Araujo and Joao Felix sit out on the bench, Jules Kounde may start as a right-back, with Roberto or Fermin Lopez in central midfield.

In that case, the central defence could comprise Andreas Christensen and Marcos Alonso, especially if Roberto ends up starting in midfield.

All things considered, Roberto looks destined to participate against Sevilla. With Frenkie de Jong and Pedri out injured and Cancelo likely to be rested, he could even be a key player for the Catalans this weekend.