Ronald Araujo suffering from a stomach virus, and Fermin Lopez picking up a knock that will keep him out for a fortnight, are just a couple of things that will force Hansi Flick to make changes to his FC Barcelona first XI that faces Alaves at Camp Nou on Saturday.
Araujo came under pressure this week for picking up a red card that contributed to a heavy 3-0 loss against Chelsea in the Champions League midweek.
As he’s been ruled out, however, the Uruguayan will have no immediate chance to make amends and is set to be replaced by Eric Garcia in central defence.
Flick’s Swiss army knife Eric will partner Pau Cubarsi, with the centrebacks flanked by Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde to their right and left respectively.
While Frenkie de Jong is the holding midfielder, Flick has to shift his formation a little thanks to Pedri not boasting full fitness – though Flick promised he’ll get some minutes – and Fermin being sidelined.
This means the Dutchman is a pivot, and behind a Dani Olmo who needs to kick on this season and a Marc Casado given a rare start at Camp Nou.
Up top, we see the same impressive trident that rocked 2024/2025, and has had few opportunities to play together, in Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal.
What FC Barcelona coach Flick said
“He (Raphinha) is one of most focused players in the team and I have missed him. He really fits our philosophy and has a very positive impact on our play. He really wants to show how good he is, and I want him to do that.”
“Lamine is fine and feels good. Many players aren’t happy when we substitute them. I was a player myself, and many times I didn’t react as I should have. Cucurella is one of the best full-backs in the world; he’s a very good player, very intelligent. But, for me, now it’s Lamine’s turn to step up and show that we have to forget the Chelsea game. Now is the time for him to show how good he is.”
FC Barcelona First XI vs. Alaves: Joan Garcia; Balde, Eric, Cubarsi, Kounde; De Jong, Casado, Olmo; Raphinha, Lewandowski, Lamine
