Gerard Piqué’s yellow at the Emirates means he missed Tuesday’s game and Puyol’s attempts to get fit enough to play seem to have been in vain, but Guardiola can call on defenders of proven class in Abidal, Milito and Busquets, as well as the impressive B team pair Bartra and Fontàs.

History repeats itself

It’s not a new situation for Pep of course – he found himself in a similar position last year against the Gunners and opted to bring in Milito and Marquez for what turned out to be a stunning 4-1 win that sent the team through to the semis.

Abidal

Éric Abidal has shown he can easily move into the heart of defence from his preferred position at full back and offer the same guarantees as a centre back as he always has done at left back. The French defender is undoubtedly a luxury candidate to resolve Guardiola’s defensive dilemma.

Sergio

Busquets has already figured at centre half and shown himself to be as accomplished as he is in the middle. His height and his tackling make him a formidable obstacle for attackers and his ability to bring the ball out from the back is unquestioned – the perfect profile for a Barça central defender.

Milito

The Argentinean played the full 90 minutes against Zaragoza and looked to have put the physical problems that have dogged him at time this season well behind him. He looked to be back on good form and just as he did last year, Milito could offer Guardiola a safe and experienced option.