#Champions League: Probable Barcelona Starting XI vs Chelsea

Barcelona manager, Ernesto Valverde, will name a strong side to face Chelsea on Tuesday night in their Champions League round of 16 tie at Stamford Bridge.

Valverde will be without former Liverpool playmaker, Philippe Coutinho, who is cup-tied having featured for the Reds in the competition before his move.

Aleix Vidal and Sergi Roberto are expected to start against the Blues.

Lionel Messi, who has never netted against Chelsea, will start in attack along with Luis Suarez.

Valverde is backing Messi is finally break his duck against Antonio Conte’s men.

“I am not sure if past facts count for anything but I know that it is an important tie for everyone, for Messi, for me and everyone at Barcelona,” Valverde said in his pre-match press conference.

“It will be difficult for the rival we face but it is an important game as we want to continue going. Possibly Leo has not had luck against Chelsea but that is all in the past.”

Barcelona likely XI: Ter Stegen; Roberto, Umtiti, Pique, Alba; Sergio, Iniesta, Rakitic, Aleix Vidal; Messi, Suarez