It's still November, but a stunning start by Barcelona could allow Valverde's men to open a huge gap at the top of the table if they can see of Valencia at Mestalla.
Marcelino's team sit four points behind Barca after putting together an eight-game winning streak and, much like La Liga leaders, they remain unbeaten in the competition.
The Valencia boss will have to watch the game from the stands after his dismissal at Espanyol last week, while Simone Zaza, Carlos Soler and Goncalo Guedes should all return to the team after resting on Sunday. Meanwhile, Jeison Murillo and Javi Jimenez remain on the sidelines.
Gerard Pique is suspended for Barcelona after picking up a fifth yellow card against Leganes, while injuries of Sergi Roberto, Andre Gomes, Rafinha and Javier Mascherano make selection for Valverde very difficult.
Recent form:
Potential lineups Valencia v Barcelona:
Valencia: Neto; Montoya, Gabriel, Garay, Gayà; Soler, Parejo, Kondogbia, Guedes; Rodrigo, Zaza
Barcelona: Ter Stegen; Semedo, Umtiti, Vermaelen, Alba; Alcácer, Rakitic, Busquets, Iniesta; Messi, Suárez