Preview for Barcelona v Alaves
Barcelona return to La Liga action tomorrow hoping to make up for their European shocker in midweek.
Hansi Flick’s side were beaten 3-0 at Chelsea and gave a performance which cast doubt on their ability to win the Champions League this season. They were totally outplayed and appeared shocked at the intensity of Chelsea’s high press which indirectly led to the first-half dismissal of defender Ronald Araujo.
However, reports in the Catalan press suggest, following a full analysis, the Barca coaching staff do not believe their chances have been diminished and when they have a fit squad available they will be able to compete with anyone.
That remains to be seen, but Barca have lost against Chelsea, Real Madrid and PSG this season and appear to struggle against high-quality opposition.
Tomorrow’s encounter should be more straightforward.
Alaves have lost their last two league games, to Girona and Celta Vigo, and will arrive at Camp Nou in 14th place.
A win for Barca will move them above Madrid and to the top of the table, for 24 hours at least.
Team News for Barcelona v Alaves
Barca are hoping to have midfield dynamo Pedri back on the bench but Araujo has missed training the past couple of days and is unlikely to feature.
Raphinha could get the nod over Ferran Torres. Fermin Lopez is out for a couple of weeks.
Alaves continue to be without defender Facundo Garcés, who is serving a 12-month FIFA-imposed ban for alleged document forgery.
Predicted line-ups for Barcelona v Alaves
Barcelona: Joan Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, Christensen, Balde; Garcia, De Jong, Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski
Alaves: Sivera; Jonny, Tenaglia, Pacheco, Youssef; Calebe, Blanco, Denis Suárez, Aleñá; Boyé, Toni Martínez
How to watch Barcelona v Alaves: TV and online streams
Barcelona versus Alaves kicks off at 3.15pm tomorrow afternoon. It can be viewed in the UK on Premier Sports and on the Premier Sports app.
Global listings can be found here.
You can also watch it on the bet365 app and website.
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Stats for Barcelona v Alaves
- Barcelona have won the last five meetings between the teams
- Alaves have not beaten Barca since 2016
