Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images

Barcelona are set to take on Las Palmas in what will be their first match in this new calendar year.

Boosted by the arrival of Vitor Roque, there is a sense of optimism within the Barça ranks as they look to build a solid winning momentum.

However, one Barcelona player may have to proceed with caution heading into this Las Palmas clash, as he is running the risk of being suspended in the next game.

Joao Cancelo faces suspension risk

The player in question is Joao Cancelo. The Portuguese international is heading into the Las Palmas game with four bookings in La Liga this season.

That means if he picks up a yellow card against Las Palmas, he will be suspended for the next league game against Real Betis.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez certainly cannot afford that as Cancelo has been a key outlet in the club’s defensive line, often switching between the left-back and the right-back position.

Cancelo has four yellow cards in La Liga so far (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Cancelo’s knowledge of positional play, coupled with his versatility and tactical prowess make him a crucial outlet in Barcelona’s build-up.

Not to mention, Barça also have limited options in the full-back department, especially following Marcos Alonso’s recent surgery.

Cancelo, therefore, must avoid a booking at all costs as Barcelona look to have him available in the game against Real Betis next week.

On a positive note, though, Cancelo is the only Barcelona running the risk of suspension heading into the Las Palmas game.

Gavi and Frenkie de Jong have already picked up five yellow cards in the season whereas Ronald Araujo and Robert Lewandowski have three each.