Barcelona's possible starting XI for the La Liga game against Real Madrid

Defensive midfielder - Sergio Busquets

FC Barcelona v Granada CF - La Liga Santander

One of the best defensive midfielders to have played the game, Sergio Busquets is now Barcelona's captain.

One of La Masia's most renowned academy graduates, Busquets has been pivotal to Barcelona's success over the years. The Spain international boasts incredible football intelligence, alongside world-class technical ability. He is not the most glamorous of players. But without his presence in midfield, it is hard to imagine Barcelona being successful in the last decade.

Unfortunately, Busquets is now slowing down. The 33-year-old still continues to perform at a good level, but it is evident that he must be rested more. Like Pique, Busquets is Barcelona through and through.

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Central midfielder - Gavi

FC Barcelona v Valencia CF - La Liga Santander

Barcelona's latest teenage sensation, Gavi, is already making waves globally. He has quickly claimed the ladders to become a first-team member.

The 17-yearold has astounded everyone with his technical quality, passing and match intelligence. Another La Masia graduate, Gavi has emerged as Barcelona's future in midfield. Given his current performances, he is also one of the club's most important midfielders.

With Pedri unavailable for the game due to an injury, Gavi looks set to start. Such is his talent that he has already made his debut for the Spanish national team. Barcelona might not be in a good position right now, but their future looks incredibly bright.

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Central midfielder - Frenkie de Jong

FC Barcelona v Granada CF - La Liga Santander

In such a dysfunctional Barcelona side, Frenkie de Jong has been unable to display his world-class quality on a regular basis.

Barcelona paid Ajax £77.4 million for de Jong's services in 2019, as they beat Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain to his signing. The Netherlands international is one of the best players in the world in his age range, but is capable of much more.

De Jong is one of Barcelona's superstar players, and much is expected from him. The 24-year-old has shown glimpses of what he is capable of. Barcelona will be hoping that he produces an inspired performance against Real Madrid.

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