Lionel Messi (centre)
A much-changed Barcelona team coasted to a 4-1 victory over Levante on 20 September Reuters

Barcelona will look to continue their perfect start to their La Liga title defence when they travel to Balaidos to take on high-flying Celta Vigo on 23 September.

Where to watch live

Kick-off is set for 7pm BST. The game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 2 HD.

Overview

With three wins and a draw in their four matches so far, Celta Vigo have made a hugely impressive start to the season while also winning many admirers with their bold attacking style. Goals from Nolito and Daniel Wass propelled Eduardo Berizzo's side to a 2-1 victory over Sevilla at the weekend, putting the Galicians just two points shy of Barcelona at the top of the La Liga standings.

Celta, who were managed by current Barcelona boss Luis Enrique in 2013/14, were one of only two teams to beat the treble-winning Catalans at the Nou Camp last season. Celta will be without young defender Jonny for the visit of the Spanish and European champions after he was sent off late in the win over Sevilla.

A brace from Lionel Messi helped Barcelona to a 4-1 win over Levante on 20 September to help them maintain their perfect start to the La Liga season. Enrique is likely to name his strongest possible line-up for the Celta match after resting the likes of Jordi Alba, Andres Iniesta and Luis Suarez at the weekend.

Defender Gerard Pique is available for selection after serving a four-match ban, but Claudio Bravo and Rafinha remain sidelined.

What managers say

Eduardo Berizzo: We had a perfect first half (against Sevilla), in which we played the ball very intelligently. It was our best first half of the season. It was important to win a match like this, at such a difficult venue and against such great opponents.

Luis Enrique: I am very satisfied with the game (against Levante) and to see that we have a lot of resources. Our system depends on who we're playing and based on the players we think are most suited to each game. In 22 days we have seven matches, and players need rest and we have to distribute the minutes. It's better for the team, physically.

Form guide

  • Celta Vigo: WDWWW
  • Last result: Sevilla 1-2 Celta Vigo
  • Barcelona (all competitions): WDWWW
  • Last result: Barcelona 4-1 Levante

Betting odds (888sport)

  • Celta Vigo win: 11/2
  • Draw: 19/5
  • Barcelona win: 6/11

Team news

Celta Vigo possible XI: Alvarez; Mallo, Cabral, Gomez, Planas; Wass, Fernandez; Orellana, Hernandez, Nolito; Aspas

Barcelona possible XI: Ter Stegen; Alves, Pique, Mascherano, Alba; Rakitic, Busquets, Iniesta; Messi, Suarez, Neymar

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