While Barcelona are already through to the next stage of the Champions League, Tottenham are not, and a win against Ernesto Valverde’s side would see Mauricio Pochettino’s side through.
Due to this situation, Spurs could be set to face a slightly weaker team than back in October, one that could see the likes of Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi rested.
Valverde, in his pre-match conference on Monday, hinted as much, explaining the congested schedule, having beaten Espanyol 4-0 on Saturday, could leave him no choice but to leave some stars out on Tuesday evening.
Asked about the aforementioned duo, he said, relayed by Sport: “We have players with some niggles like Luis Suarez and with two games in three days, it’s clear that I don’t intend to force him after saving him over the past few days because of his knee problems.
“Messi? I’ll let you know in 24 hours. Inter don’t have to worry about anything. Our intention is to win, without a doubt.”
So that’s Suarez likely out, and Messi probably still pondering his own involvement.
While there could be a few changes in the starting line up against Tottenham, Barcelona will still field a side they feel is good enough to beat Spurs, or at least try to.
Whether that means Ousmane Dembélé starts again, however, we’ll have to wait and see.
