Xavi set to name a surprise starter in Barcelona’s next match

As Sergio Busquets is suspended, a midfield spot is up for grabs in the line-up for Sunday’s trip to Real Sociedad.

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez could start Miralem Pjanic for the club’s LaLiga match against Real Sociedad on Sunday.

That’s according to Diario Sport. The report claims Pjanic has got a second lease on life under Xavi. The Bosnian had been tipped to leave Camp Nou this summer, but has convinced the manager otherwise. He may now start his first match for Barca since February 2021 this weekend.

❗️| Busquets will NOT be available for the next match against Real Sociedad because of the red card tonight. #fcblive pic.twitter.com/DtmcuUb6de

— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) August 13, 2022

Sergio Busquets, who was sent off in the club’s 0-0 season-opening draw against Rayo Vallecano last weekend, is suspended. The Barcelona captain’s absence leaves a spot in central midfield to fill. And, as Nico Gonzalez has gone on loan to Valencia, Pjanic might be the man to fill it.

The 32-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Besiktas, impressed Xavi during pre-season. The coach recently named him as one of four substitute options for Busquets. The other three players were Frenkie de Jong, Franck Kessie, and Andreas Christensen.