Without the ability to play in Europe, Philippe Coutinho's role at Barcelona this season should be fulfilled perfectly as he replaces Andres Iniesta in the league trip to Malaga.

Although the idea was for for the Brazilian to provide respite for Ernesto Valverde's usual stars in these sort of matches anyway, Iniesta's injury ahead of the game makes this swap a no-brainer.

So far, Coutinho has maybe lacked the killer instinct required at Barcelona but he has shown great willingness to get on the ball and be involved with attacking build-ups, with his task on Saturday to dominate the midfield and create chances.

With the Malaga fixture coming only days before the Azulgrana's Champions League return game against Chelsea, coach Valverde may seek further changes and Gerard Pique is first in line for a rest as the club manage his knee complaint.

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez may also sit this one out despite having a free midweek in the build-up to the trip, the latter currently perched on four bookings and perhaps wary of missing the subsequent encounter at home to Athletic Club.

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