Barcelona vs Bilbao 8pm Match Thread

Before I preview this match, I would just like to address why I haven’t written my post-game thoughts about Arsenal vs United in the form of an article. I actually fully intended to do so, and proudly spoke of the fact I was preparing my piece by watching the game again last night during yesterday evening’s JA606 reaction to it.

Unfortunately, due to negative comments about the team & manager, I won’t be posting the review. I can accept people have an opinion, but when people appear out the woodwork to be negative I don’t see why I should put my energy into a piece of work that will no doubt be subject to pessimism. I believe in having a positive mental attitude and do away with negativity in my life.

To anyone who was looking forward to my post match review, I am truly sorry for letting you down. I’ve seen several comments today on other posts with plenty of people eager to hear my thoughts, excited about my work etc but I have to stay true to myself. Anyway, onto the Barca game:

Barca XI:

Ter Stegen

Mingueza
Araujo
Umtiti
Alba

Pjanic
Pedri
De Jong

Griezmann
Messi
Dembele

After today’s controversial leak of Messi’s contract, I am eager to see how he plays today. The G.O.A.T is known for hating his private matters made public, so no doubt he will be furious at the club over the breach of his affairs. I am sure it’s just a power play to get him to go in the summer, no doubt PSG and City are ready to pounce.

Bilbao are a tricky opponent and have dangerous players who can hurt Barca, particularly on the counter like Inaki Williams. I believe Barca have turned a corner these last few weeks however, so I’m going for 3-0 FCB.


Great to see Sergi Roberto back on the bench today! He’s been missed these last few months and will be plenty of use to Koeman in the next phase of the campaign.