Interview
La Liga: Levante – FC Barcelona, a duel to bounce again or preserve rolling
For the second matchday of La Liga, Levante hosts FC Barcelona this Saturday on the Ciutat de València. Each groups are coming into this conflict with very completely different targets and mindsets.
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Levante UD: trying to get better after a defeat
The Granotas are looking for their first win of the season after a painful loss to Alavés, conceded in stoppage time. Levante coach Pablo Calero emphasised focus and defensive self-discipline:
We should keep alert and constant, not give any presents to Barça’s harmful assault.
Calero additionally mentioned Lamine Yamal, who’s step by step taking up from Messi:
He isn’t Messi, however his profile and motion create issues. We’ve to stop him from getting snug whereas utilizing our personal attacking weapons. It’s like a ship the place it’s a must to patch up the holes the place water seeps in.
The coach can even need to cope with absences in midfield, a handicap that might restrict the staff’s attacking choices and general stability.
Levante possible XI: Pablo Cuñat – Toljan, Cabello, Dela, Elgezábal, Manu Sánchez – Oriol Rey, Pablo Martínez, Brugué, Victor García or Morales – Koyalipou or Iván Romero.
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FC Barcelona: trying to construct on their opening win
The Blaugrana began the season with a 3-0 victory at Mallorca. Regardless of the strong begin, coach Hansi Flick expressed his want to take care of depth for the total 90 minutes:
After the sending off at Son Moix, we misplaced a little bit of rhythm. Tomorrow, we now have to remain constant.
Barça is anticipating a tricky contest: “Levante are nicely organized defensively and have good transitions,” he added. The coach can be hoping that Gerard Martín will be registered for this match. As for Robert Lewandowski, his participation stays unsure:
We’ve thought of all of the choices. If we are able to use him, he’ll play.
In midfield, Gavi and Casadó may function in the identical space, offering extra options to regulate the sport in opposition to the Granotas.
Barcelona possible XI: Joan García – Koundé, Araujo, Cubarsí, Balde – De Jong, Pedri, Dani Olmo – Lamine Yamal, Ferran or Lewandowski, Raphinha.
Levante are aiming to halt league leaders Barcelona and kickstart their very own marketing campaign. Barça, in the meantime, desires to say their dominance proper from the second spherical. The match guarantees to be intense, tactical, and full of possibilities.