Barcelona vs Racing Santander Match Preview (Spain La Liga)

Barcelona currently share the pole position with surprise package Levante - both having 14 points. The Catalans have the edge on goal difference, due to the fact that they have scored 23 goals and conceded only 4, thus far.

Racing Santander are in a totally different condition, having to fight to get out of the relegation zone. With only 4 points in 6 games, 2 losses and 4 draws, they can only hope to start and preserve what would be a useful winning streak.

Against Barcelona however, a strong line-up is very often a requirement. But all is not looking good for Santander. They will be entering the Camp Nou without the likes of loanee Lautaro Acosta and defender Osmar. The two players are reportedly victims of knee injuries.

Pep Guardiola will also have to do with few reductions on his side. Cesc Fabregas, Alexis Sanchez and Ibrahim Afellay are all unable to contribute this weekend. But at last, midfielder Andres Iniesta is ready for a return, as he could start on the bench.

Despite the loss of 3 of the team’s key players, Barcelona attacker Pedro Rodriguez insisted that the squad was “fully confident and in good shape.” He also promised fans that Los Cules “will be at 100% against Racing.”

The reigning champions are widely expected to maintain their unbeaten run come the final whistle on Saturday night, although should Racing cause an upset Pedro insists the international fixtures cannot be blamed. "It is always hard to get back into shape after an international break," the 24-year-old told fcbarcelona.com. "But we are training well, are fully confident, and in good shape. "Racing have a great team and we expect a good game at the Camp Nou and to keep collecting points. "Those who have been with our national teams are recovering strength, but I'm sure we'll be ready in time for this game. "Because of the travel and the minutes played it is always hard to be at one's best after playing internationals, but we are confident and will be at 100 per cent against Racing."