Everyone is talking about Real Madrid's injury struggles, but Tito Vilanova has plenty of issues of his own as his team travels to face Deportivo La Coruña.
Deportivo La Coruña vs. Barcleona: Preview and TV schedule
Barcelona’s defense continues to be decimated by injuries as Tito Vilanova’s side travels to face struggling Deportivo La Coruña
Jasper Juinen
Barca's defense is decimated with Carles Puyol, Gerard Piqué and Davi Alves all out. Mario Montoya, who came on for Alves against Madrid and played well, is expected to start at the right full back position, with either Adriano or Jordi Alba on the left. Alex Song and Javier Mascherano should start in the central defense, but if Masch is fatigued from all his international break travels, Marc Bartra could finally get a start.
Speaking of fatigue, there's been rumors that Lionel Messi could be rested after his busy schedule with Argentina over the past two weeks.
Coruña, according to their website, plan to stay in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation with Bruno Gama, Pizzi, Juan Carlos Valerón and Riki all chomping at the bit to test Barca’s shaky defense. It’s been a rough start to the season for José Luis Oltra’s side who currently sit in the relegation zone in 18th place. Even with the injuries Barca are dealing with, Coruña will need a big performance to steal points today.
Deportivo La Coruña injuries and suspensions
Out: Manuel Pablo (hamstring). In doubt: Rodolfo Bodipo (back)
Barcelona injuries and suspensions
Out: Gerard Piqué (foot), Carles Puyol (arm), Dani Alves (muscle). In Doubt: Lionel Messi (fatigue).
Barca’s defense continues to deal with a rash of injuries. Dani Alves has joined regular starters Piqué and Puyol on the sidelines, so Tito Vilanova will again face decisions at the back. Messi may not start after playing in two matches for Argentina during the break, combined with a lot of travel.
Match Date/Time: 11 p.m. local, 4 p.m. ET
Venue: Estadio Municipal de Riazor, A Coruña, Galicia, Spain
TV: beIN Sport 1 (U.S.), Sky Sports 1 (U.K.), Sportsnet (Canada)
See More:
