Barcelona will face Deportivo Alavés at the Spotify Camp Nou this weekend as they try to recover from their heavy Champions League defeat to Chelsea. Ronald Araujo’s early red card made the loss even harder, and he will miss the next league match after sitting out training with a stomach virus.
His absence means Hansi Flick must adjust the back line again, but the coach does have some good news in midfield. Pedri has returned from injury and should be available for a few minutes. Flick said the midfielder will be eased back into the team, which should give Barcelona more control and creativity.
This week’s training sessions focused on sharper pressing and quicker transitions as the players worked to reset after a tough night in Europe. Flick also spoke about Lamine Yamal’s frustration when he was substituted. He explained that the young winger remains committed and focused on helping the team.
A win against Alavés would help Barcelona build momentum in La Liga. Three points could bring them level with Real Madrid or even move them ahead, depending on other results. With home support and key players returning, the team hopes to steady their form and find their rhythm again in a tight title race.
Alavés enter the match as underdogs, but they have shown enough organisation this season to cause problems when given space. Barcelona will need a disciplined performance to avoid more setbacks.
