Today’s away match at the Los Carmenes stadium is a perfect opportunity for Lionel Messi to get his first away goal in La Liga since the start of the season. The Argentinean scored in away games in the Champions League and the Spanish Supercopa, so a goal versus newly promoted Granada would do him justice in La Liga.

After having seen his penalty saved by Sevilla’s Javi Varas, Messi will be looking to add to his tally of 16 goals in all competitions this season. Cesc Fabregas, who may return to the starting eleven, will also look to link up with Barça’s number 10, like in previous matches. The Catalan midfielder will want to put the latest drama with Kanoute behind him from Saturday’s match.

Since the upcoming match is similar to the one 3 weeks ago at Sporting Gijon, it looks like Guardiola may use the 3-4-3 formation. With Mascherano as last man, and recent Ballon D’Or 2011 nominations Alves and Abidal on the sides, Pep employs three quick defenders at the back. The midfield, in a diamond of 4, could be formed out of any of Busquets, Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas, Thiago and Keita. It is very likely that the first four will start. On the wings, Villa is a definite starter with the doubt being between Pedro and Adriano. The Canarian offers more teamplay, finishing and movement while the Brazilian can play more direct down the wing. Both players are good with either foot.

With dangerous players such as Uche and Dani Benitez up front, Granada will look to prove to La Liga why they were such an entertaining side last season in La Liga Adelante. Benitez recently offered a bit of advice for Messi in the pre-match conference: “He should shoot his next penalty hard and down the middle, just to be sure.” Are the mind games being played already?

Predicted Line-up: Valdes; Alves, Mascherano, Abidal; Busquets, Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas; Adriano, Villa, Messi

Predicted score: Granada 1-2 FCB

Article written by Barcaloco contributor Keenan Manresa. Follow Keenan on Twitter at @knnza.