PREVIEW | FC Barcelona v Real Valladolid
Going into the international break with another three points, as leaders and having won every possible game. That's the blaugranes' aim for this Saturday's game at the Estadi Olímpic against Valladolid. Hansi Flick's side will be wanting to make the best possible start to LaLiga and in front of their fans before the first international break of the season.
After the three points against Valencia, Athletic Club and Rayo, Valladolid are the next target to keep the run going. The blaugranes haven't started a LaLiga season with four wins since the 18/19 season and this Saturday is a chance to do just that.
Newly promoted, but old acquaintances
They may have only come up again this season, but Valladolid have a lot of experience in the Primera Division. They have spent 39 seasons in the top flight and 32 in the second division. Barça have won 15 out of the last 17 meetings, racking up 44 goals (2.6 per game) and conceding only nine (0.5 per game). The most recent game, however, was a 3-1 win for Valladolid at the José Zorrilla stadium two seasons ago.
They are very strong at home, but they find it a bit tougher on their travels, not winning a game away to Barça since 1997 and not even grabbing any points since 2003.
A draw, a win and a defeat
The newly promoted side have accumulated every type of result since the league season began. They currently sit mid-table in 11th place after beating Espanyol (1-0), losing against Real Madrid (3-0) and drawing against Leganés (0-0). The side coached by Paolo Pezzolano have strengthened to try to stay in the division and they will be giving their all in such demanding games like the one this Saturday against Barça.
