Lucho will play Barcelona's gala XI vs Roma

Lucho will play Barcelona's gala XI vs Roma

Luis Enrique will put out his gala XI, practically the same side that lifted the club's fifth Champions League trophy in Berlin in May. The one difference between that clash at the end of last season and tonight's starting line up is that Dani Alves is injured. The Brazilian's adductor problem means Sergi Roberto will start in his place. 

In any case, the performances of the cantera player have been spectacular so no fans are too unhappy with the situation. He has earned a starting spot, impressing there against Athletic, Malaga and Atletico Madrid. 

The champions of Europe are not planning any surprises in the defence of their title. Gerard Pique is set to return - he has been suspended in La Liga - while Thomas Vermaelen is injured anyway. Javier Mascherano and Jordi Alba will fill out the back line. 

However, the Jefecito didn't have his best afternoon against Atletico Madird, after coming back from his transatlantic voyage with Argentina, and only trained once. Perhaps Lucho will choose Mathieu or Marc Bartra in his stead. 

In midfielde there are the undroppable duo, Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta, with one of Ivan Rakitic or Rafinha in the other position in the team. The former would be a better option if it comes down to physicality, while the latter has the ability to unbalance the Italians and play between the lones. 

Evidently there is no discussion about the attacking trio. Leo Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar. 

And in goal - it will be Marc-Andre ter Stegen, with Claudio Bravo still injured.