Preview: FC Barcelona vs. Valencia CF

Valencia CF return from the international break with a new coach and a new challenge, as they take on FC Barcelona at the Camp Nou on Saturday (9pm CEST). The game is regarded as one of the toughest away fixtures in LaLiga, but the team were able to get a point from the Catalan ground last season and have a strong recent record against the reigning champions.

A New Coach
Albert Celades takes charge for the first time since his appointment as coach on Wednesday, and does so against his former club. The new boss has had two training sessions in which to transmit his ideas to the team, and has emphasised that his players will be going for the win.

Recent Encounters
One of only two sides not to be beaten by Barça in 2018/19 (the other being Athletic Club), Valencia CF drew 1-1 at Mestalla with Ernesto Valverde's side. In the return fixture they would go 0-2 up in a game that eventually ended 2-2.

Of course, the most famous game between the two sides from the last campaign was the Copa del Rey final, in which Kevin Gameiro and Rodrigo's firs half goals gave Valencia CF their first trophy since 2008.

Current Form
Both teams have 4 points to their name after three games played. Valencia CF were held to a draw by Real Sociedad, lost to Celta Vigo and claimed their first win by beating Mallorca before the international break, whilst Barça's only victory so far has been a 5-2 home triumph against Real Betis.

A return for Cillessen
The match marks the first time that Jasper Cillessen returns to the Camp Nou since he joined Valencia CF in the summer. The Dutch goalkeeper spent three seasons at FC Barcelona before his move to Mestalla.

Barça have several players with history at VCF, including Jordi Alba and Neto -who is unavailable for the game through injury.

Squads
Valencia CF are without Carlos Soler and Cristiano Piccini through their long term injuries, whilst new signing Thierry Correia has to wait for his first inclusion in the squad list.

Barça are without Leo Messi, Ousmane Dembélé and Samuel Umtiti, but welcome back Luis Suárez and Junior Firpo.