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This is the big opportunity Arturo Vidal has been waiting for. With Ivan Rakitic injured, it could open the door for Vidal to stake his claim for a starting spot at FC Barcelona. The Croatian has been involved in 17 matches this season (12 LaLiga, 4 Champions League and Spanish Super Cup final) and that's made it difficult for Vidal to force his way into Valverde's plans.
The injury to Rakitic might hand Vidal a start in one of the biggest matches of the season. Barça head to the Wanda Metropolitano to face a resurgent Atletico Madrid following the international break. Up to this point Vidal has only started three matches as a Barcelona player: twice in LaLiga and once in the Copa del Rey.
If he starts against Atletico it'll be Vidal's 10th appearance for the club. A Vidal who, after a tricky start which was dominated by social media posts, has calmed down and changed his role. He's now a dependable member of Valverde's squad and has become a key option off the bench recently.
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Vidal will compete alongside Denis Suarez, Carles Aleña and Rafinha for a starting spot in a side which is also missing Coutinho as well as Rakitic.