The FC Barcelona will start the 2024/25 season in LaLiga EA Sports possibly with some doubts in its sports project, as it has suffered two consecutive setbacks: a 2-2 draw against AC Milan (lost 4-3 on penalties) and, the most significant of them, a 3-0 defeat against AS Monaco in the Joan Gamper Trophy. However, it's worth noting that the opponent they will face in this league opener, Valencia CF, will also be in a situation of uncertainty.
From a sports perspective, despite the fact that the 'ches' have recently achieved a 3-2 victory against Eintracht Frankfurt, it is a fact that in the five matches prior to this triumph, the results were not the most favorable: three losses (2-1 against Leeds United, 2-1 against PSV Eindhoven, and 0-1 against Alavés) and two draws (0-0 against Levante and 0-0 against Castellón). Therefore, it cannot be guaranteed how Rubén Baraja's team will arrive at this match against the blaugrana.
The 'ches' have made little investment in strengthening this summer
On the other hand, Valencia fans are expected to turn out in large numbers to support their team in the clash against the Barcelona squad. However, they may also show dissatisfaction towards the club's management regarding transfers, as in terms of new signings, the 'blanquinegro' team has not reinforced itself significantly, spending only around €150,000 on the loan of Dani Gómez from Levante. Additionally, they have acquired the services of Macedonian goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski on a free transfer and have added Rafa Mir, who arrives on loan from Sevilla FC.
Furthermore, the potential sale of one of their key players and standout LaLiga EA Sports goalkeepers, Giorgi Mamardashvili, remains uncertain. Following an impressive performance in the Euro 2024 with the Georgia national team, he seems to be tempted by Liverpool. There are rumors that the 'Reds' have already made an initial proposal of around €35 million, which has been rejected as Valencia values him at around €40 million. Amid this uncertainty, the goalkeeper may not see playing time against the blaugrana.
Valencia will face FC Barcelona 'short' of wingers
Regarding players, it is important to note that Valencia is experiencing difficulties in the right winger position. For instance, the 'che' team is unsure if they can count on Fran Pérez, who has been dealing with a lower back overload since July 19. Additionally, Sergi Canós, another key forward in that position, is recovering from a left soleus injury.
The natural alternative for that position would be Diego López, who is also doubtful due to discomfort in his right glute, which prevented him from playing with Spain in the Olympics, in the matches against Morocco (2-1) in the semifinals and in the final against France (3-5). We will have to wait to see in what condition he arrives for the confrontation against FC Barcelona.