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10 months ago
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Later today, Barcelona lock horns with Celta Vigo at the Municipal de Balaidos in what will be a gruelling matchup. The Catalans have won just once at the feared venue in nine years and the team will thus need to conjure all their available resources if they are to get over the line.
There are multiple storylines and matters of concern for Xavi heading into the game in Galicia. If the team’s long injury list and poor run of form was not enough, there are multiple players at risk of missing the team’s next game should they see a yellow card later today.
Four names in danger
Having already seen four yellow cards this season, four Barcelona players will tread the disciplinary tightrope later today during the game against Celta Vigo.
In defence, Joao Cancelo and Ronald Araujo are the names in question who will miss the clash against Getafe should they be sanctioned today. A third regular starter at the same risk is Robert Lewandowski.
Araujo, Romeu on four yellow cards. (Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)Oriol Romeu is the fourth player who is on four yellow cards, although the Spaniard is expected to start on the bench against Celta Vigo. Should he come on as a substitute, however, he will have to remain cautious.
If they receive a yellow card today, the players will be suspended for the La Liga encounter against Getafe next weekend.
Manager treading the same rope
Interestingly, the fifth name who is on the verge of facing a one-game suspension is the manager Xavi. The Spanish legend is known for his vocal dissent against referees on the sidelines and is often the recipient of a yellow card.
Not having Xavi on the sidelines against Getafe, however, would be a massive blow for the team against an opposition that simply do not offer any entry points in their low block.
Considering that the team’s subsequent game in La Liga is against Athletic Club, however, it appears likely that Barcelona will be without their manager for one of the two critical fixtures.
