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Lionel Messi missed the Copa del Rey defeat in Barcelona midweek.
The Catalan giants struggled without their talisman. The goals of Pablo Sarabia and Wissam Ben Yedder were enough to give Sevilla a decisive advantage in the first leg.
Barcelona's decision to play Messi has been criticized by manager Valverde. Carlos Alena, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Malcom were all working in the attack.
But Valverde thinks he has made the right choice to rest the main man of his team.
"These things are at the discretion of the coach, who knows the players the best and knows how they are going," he said.
"I can say a little more … The data I have about players, nobody [else] a – only those of us in the interior [the club].
"I do what I think is best for us and the group, we talk about rotations when we lose."
Messi should be present in Barcelona against Girona in Liga Sunday (15:15).
And Valverde anticipates a close encounter.
"All matches have a high level of difficulty," he said.
"It is a derby and there is more energy in these matches, they are played with enthusiasm.
"We know how difficult it is to win in Montilivi.
"It's going to be difficult and important. We are at a time when points matter. It is going to be difficult."
Barcelona 5 next matches:
Girona – January 26 – Express Sport predicts a 3-0 win.
Seville – January 30 – Express Sport predicts a 2-1 win.
Valencia – February 2 – Express Sport predicts a 3-0 win.
Athletic Bilbao – February 10 – Express Sport predicts a 2-1 win.
Real Valladolid – February 16 – Express Sport predicts a 3-0 win.
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