While the thoughts of many are instinctively drawn to the weekend, the return of Luis Suarez and El Classico, we shouldn’t forget that this match will be contested by two of the most celebrated names in European football.
Barcelona and Ajax are among the biggest and the best clubs in the history of the competition and Barcelona need points – especially at home – after the defeat in Paris in the last round of fixtures.
In truth this game should be fairly comfortable for Barcelona. Ajax continue to sell their best players when the price is right. This summer it was Daley Blind, who was linked with Barca, but ended up at Manchester United.
Barca are in pretty good shape fitness-wise. Adriano is out and Busquets may be unavailable after missing out at the weekend. Ramos may be rested before the big one after a niggling injury. And we may see a couple more players rested ahead of El Classico but it’s going to be a strong side for a serious game.
There is talk of Samper playing in a holding midfield role and we think that Xavi will either play tonight OR against Real – not both.
Here’s our best XI. Barcelona fans: agreed?
