The FC Barcelona coach, HansiFlick, presented the probable lineup for tonight's match against Alavés, scheduled at 9:00 p.m. on Movistar LaLiga. In yesterday's practice, Flick tested a defense without four of his usual full-backs, which forced the team to consider an unprecedented formation for the day.
In the closed-door test, Flick used BrianFariñas and JoãoCancelo as full-backs, while in the center of the field he relied on the Paraguayan Cubarsí and the Dutchman DeJong as center backs. Up front, African striker Adeyemi occupied the left winger position. The rest of the eleven tried with Rodri and Pedri as a double pivot, LamineYamal and Adeyemi on the wingers, Fermín in the midfielder and Raphinha as the number nine forward.
The absence of four key defenders – AndreasChristensen, JulesKoundé, EricGarcia and XaviEspart – forces Flick to resort to an alternative defence. The defense is expected to be made up of JoanGarcia in goal, Fariñas, Cubarsí, DeJong and Cancelo. With this setup, midfielder GerardMartín could rest, while AlejandroBalde, who recently played against PSG and Real Madrid, would remain on the bench.
At the press conference, Flick highlighted Fariñas' performance, calling him “very intelligent” and “fantastic” in his work as a winger, and suggested that it is time for him to “deserve to play.” Likewise, he hinted that Balde “does not have the necessary confidence to play, with the conviction to attack and press high,” and that he needs to gain more confidence. As for DeJong, Flick pointed out that, although “it is hard for Gerard and Cubarsí with so many losses,” the player can play in several positions, including as a center back, and that his quality, attitude and mentality bring a higher level to the team.
With the proven lineup and the defined defensive adjustments, Barça prepares to face Alavés with a squad that combines experience and youth. The result of this combination will be crucial to maintain the team's position in the table and to ensure the continuity of their league campaign.