LaLiga 2018-19: Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona - Combined XI

Defenders

Umtiti has been Barca's best defender this season

Left-back: Jordi Alba

Lucas Hernandez has had an absolute blinder of a year, but he has failed to nail down the left-back slot for Atleti this season. Meanwhile, his counterpart in Barcelona has maintained his supremely high levels.

Alba has essentially had the full left side of the pitch to himself since Neymar's departure, and he has handled it admirably. His pace and defensive tenacity have not waned, and his habitual runs in attacking positions have paid dividends for Barca many times.

Center-back: Samuel Umtiti

Umtiti was out injured for a considerable time, but he made the bench last time against Betis, and he should be thrust into the starting lineup at the Metropolitano.

The Frenchman is one of the most complete defenders in the game currently, and he had a stellar campaign last time, both for club and country. He has continued the same form this season, and his return from injury will be a welcome one for Barca as their defence has looked shambolic at times in recent games.

Center-back: Jose Maria Gimenez

If Diego Godin were fit, he would be locked in for the spot, but the Uruguayan will miss the game through injury. Gerard Pique has not had the best of seasons, so Godin's compatriot Gimenez makes the cut.

He was also a doubt for the clash, but thankfully for Simeone, he will make a return. Strong, composed, and intelligent, Gimenez has all the makings of a great defender. He will have his hands full with a certain Uruguayan on Saturday, and keeping him quiet will be crucial to get the three points for his side.

Right-back: Juanfran

There is not a single right-back who has been solid across all the games for either side, so Juanfran makes the cut despite playing just half of the games for his side.

Valverde has preferred to play Sergi Roberto more often than Nelson Semedo, but the Spaniard has been guilty of defensive mistakes a little too often. New signing Santiago Arias has looked decent for Atleti, but the veteran Juanfran has continued to show the same consistency yet again.

Simeone's trusted man, Juanfran has managed to keep up with the pace of the game despite his age, and his experience will most likely see him start against Barcelona.