Paulinho is the chosen one for Stamford Bridge Champions League - Barcelona Brazilian to start against Chelsea

As Barcelona head to London to play Chelsea in the Champions League, Paulinho's big moment has arrived, back in the town where he endured the toughest moments of his career.

Against Eibar on Saturday, Ernesto Valverde chose an eleven that it seems will be the starters in London.

The Brazilian is the fourth midfield man, a companion for Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, driving through from the second line.

Paulinho option

The Brazilian hasn't been as good recently as in the first third of the season but he still offers something different to Barcelona, and more for these types of games.

Playing a defensive role, powerful in the air and experienced, he is the ideal choice.

Dembele Option

Because of his name, for what he cost and for many other reasons, the Frenchman would generally be the first option.

His two recent injuries, however, have forced the club to protect him.

The intensity and high tempo that will be played at Stamford Bridge could impact on a player of his age and with his recent history of physical problems.

Third option: Paco Alcacer, Aleix Vidal or Andre Gomes

The least likely of all.

Alcacer in the starting XI has only been seen in a handful of games, Vidal is not a regular and the coach has already lost patience with the Portuguese.

With Coutinho unable to play in Europe and Dembele mentally scarred by his injuries, Paulinho's moment seems to have arrived.

The Brazilian is ready to perform in a game that will demand his absolute maximum.