Preview: Off the field issues could cause problems for the Blaugrana
Barcelona's players more than likely sat back and watched Atletico Madrid take on Levante Saturday night. Unfortunately for the Catalans, Simeone's squad managed a slender 3-2 victory, which now has them top of the table, with Barcelona still yet to play.
Sunday's match will not only give Barcelona a chance to climb back into the top spot, but they will also look to give their fans something to smile about.
Earlier in the week, judge Pablo Ruz asked the club's president Sandro Rosell to present financial documents referring to Neymar's transfer. The Catalans are being accused of receiving funds from the government, along with Real Madrid.
If those accusations were not bad enough, Lionel Messi got into a war of words with a Barcelona board member, in reference to a potential contract extension.
Javier Faus' comments did not sit well with the Argentine captain, who publicly stated that he had not asked for more money, nor a contract extension at this time.
Taking the pitch on Sunday will hopefully have a better outcome for Barcelona, who will be without Neymar due to suspension. Xavi and Gerard Pique are also uncertain for this fixture, while Victor Valdes is still out with an injury.
Getafe come into the match having defeated Girona 4-1 in a Copa del Rey fixture. They will now take on Barcelona in the next round, but according to their president Angel Torres, he believes this is the perfect time to take on the Spanish giants.
"Let's see if we can get them this time, it's a good moment for it," said Torres. "Messi is the best player in the world and Neymar is coming into good form, but it must be said that they have plenty of backup. We will have to play at 150 percent on Sunday."
The hosts will welcome back Borja Fernandez, who had been out due to a suspension.
Where to watch this match - Live Stream, Start Time, TV Channels, Live Scores
Watch Getafe vs Barcelona live on Sunday, December 22, 2013:
In Canada at 11:00 ET on: beIN Sport Play Canada
In the UK at 16:00 BST on: Sky Sports 3/HD, NOW TV powered by Sky, Sky Go UK
In the USA at 11:00 ET on: beIN Sport Play, beIN Sport en Español, beIN Sport USA
Viewers in Spain can follow all the action on Canal+ Liga / HD, GOL T, C+ Liga Multi, Gol Stadium and Canal+ Yomvi. If you are outside these viewing areas, be sure to visit the Getafe vs Barcelona match page for full TV listings.
