Barcelona vs. Valencia: One enforced change and a couple of doubts in Valverde's XI

Ernesto Valverde knows what his team's priority is. He has recognised as much in press conferences and in games like Saturday's against Valencia he has to show as much with his decisions. Barcelona are always fixed on La Liga. It's the competition of consistency, which rewards the genuine king of a long, hard season. In addition, La Liga has been competitive and equal this season. 

For those reasons, Valverde shouldn't make many changes from the side which beat Sevilla in midweek. We say 'shouldn't' because if he does, if there are changes, it will be a message that he's thinking about the Clasico. It is obvious that there will be a focus on the first leg of Barça's Copa del Rey semifinal first leg against Real Madrid on Wednesday. 

That doesn't mean wholesale changes, but maybe one or two.  

Marc-Andre ter Stegen will return in goal (he will also play against Madrid due to Cillessen's unexpected injury) but there's a doubt in defence. Pique, Lenglet and Alba will probably all keep their place, but Semedo could come in for Sergi Roberto at right-back.

In midfield, Valverde may give continuity to Arthur, who could be accompanied by Rakitic and Vidal, with Busquets suspended. Carles Alena's an unlikely option. 

There are less doubts further forward. Coutinho needs confidence and Messi and Suarez don't move from the XI. Kevin Prince Boateng may get a chance in the second half.