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

Forwards

Messi will look to make his mark yet again against Atletico

Right winger: Lionel Messi

No questions here, right?. Despite his recent injury setback, Messi has enjoyed a stellar campaign, and he has registered 9 goals and 5 assists in the league in just nine starts this season, and both numbers are league-highs. He tops the league for dribbles, key passes and Man of the Match awards as well

The Argentine suffered an arm injury recently but is now fit and raring to go. His international hiatus has kept him spritely for the club games, and Atletico will be wary of him given his impressive record against them.

Striker: Luis Suarez

There is no debate here either as no striker from Atletico has been close to Suarez's level this season. The likes of Diego Costa, Nikola Kalinic and Angel Correa have not impressed, whereas Suarez is enjoying a resurgence in fortunes lately.

The Uruguayan has scored 9 goals and has set up 4 more, and he has silenced many doubters in the process. He is not the same player from a couple of years ago, but he still remains a valuable asset for Barca. During Messi's absence, he stepped up his level considerably, and hopefully for Barcelona that will continue on Saturday.

Left winger: Antoine Griezmann

Griezmann was rumoured to join Barcelona in the summer, but he signed a new contract with Atletico instead. He will face his ex-suitors for the first time this weekend, and he will be hopeful of making a mark.

After a successful outing in Russia, the Frenchman has failed to get going this season, netting just 3 goals. But no one can doubt his calibre, and he will surely find his scoring touch sooner rather than later. If he does so against Barcelona, it could go a long way in vindicating his decision in the summer.