Match Preview: Deportivo Alavés vs FC Barcelona

Barcelona will be facing Deportivo Alaves on Saturday evening at Mendizorrotza Stadium. First game after head coach Xavi’s decision to step down as manager at the end of the season, Barcelona found hard fought 1-0 victory against Osasuna last Wednesday.

New signing Vitor Roque’s first goal for the Catalan club sealed much-needed three points for Xavi’s side. The latest form of Barcelona has been mixed up with three wins and three defeats in their last six games across all competition.

After a 3-5 home defeat against Villareal last Saturday, Barcelona’s title hope has been very slim. They are sitting ten points behind league leader Real Madrid with 47 points from 22 games into the season.

On the other hand, Alaves have been pretty impressive with 26 points from 22 games, which puts them in 11th position on the table. Alaves have won 4 games out of their last 5 games including the last three games, only one defeat came against the Athletic club in the Copa Del Rey game.

Team News

Unfortunately, Alaves will continue to miss the services of Aleksandar Sedlar due to his long-term knee injury. Additionally, Andoni Gorosabel’s absence due to suspension adds to the team’s challenge.

Barcelona, meanwhile, continue to lose their key players due to injury. Ferran Torres became the ninth Barcelona player to pick up an injury during the game against Osasuna. Apart from him, Barcelona will be missing Joao Felix, Sergio Roberto, Raphinha, Balde, Gavi, Marcos Alonso, and Marc Andre Ter Stegen through injury. Defender Inigo Martinez has a chance to participate in the game as he is back in the squad.

Possible playing XI:

Barcelona: Pena; Kounde, Araujo, Christensen, Cancelo; Frenkie De Jong, Pedri, Fermin Lopez, Gundogan; Yamal, Lewandowski

Alaves: Sivera; Tenaglis, Rafa Marin, Duarte, Javi Lopez; Guevara, Blanco, Guridi; Vicente, Rioja, Samu

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