Barcelona's Lethal Attacking Trio Reunites to Demolish Alaves
Barcelona welcome Alavés to Camp Nou seeking their fourth straight La Liga victory to overtake Real Madrid at the summit of the table.
Even more crucial for Hansi Flick is ensuring his team demonstrates resilience and bounces back following a devastating 3–0 defeat to Chelsea in the Champions League in their previous outing. Barcelona were completely outplayed at Stamford Bridge, raising serious doubts about the Catalans' credentials as genuine trophy challengers this campaign.
A home encounter against 14th-placed Alavés might be precisely the remedy needed. Eduardo Coudet's team have managed only two victories in their past nine league matches, and their last triumph at Camp Nou occurred nearly ten years ago.
Raphinha may return to the starting lineup for the first time since late September, and the attacking triumvirate of the Brazilian, Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski could feature together from the start for the first time this season.
Regrettably for Flick, Fermín López, who has been an exceptional performer throughout the past month, will be absent from the encounter after sustaining a new muscle problem.
Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Deportivo Alaves (4-2-3-1)
GK: Joan García—García had minimal opportunity to influence the Chelsea match and will be eager to secure his second consecutive La Liga clean sheet since recovering from injury.
RB: Eric García—The Spanish defender appeared out of place operating as a central midfielder against Chelsea. He may return to a more natural role at right back, taking over from the struggling Jules Koundé.
CB: Pau Cubarsí—The teenage center back has endured a challenging campaign, but Flick clearly maintains complete faith in his capacity to anchor Barcelona's defensive line.
CB: Gerard Martín—Martín delivered an impressive performance in his maiden career start as a center back last weekend versus Athletic Club. Considering Barça's struggling defense, the La Masia product has an opportunity to establish a more prominent role within the squad.
LB: Alejandro Balde—While Balde's defensive contributions this season need enhancement, his pace down the left wing remains vital for Barcelona's effectiveness at both ends of the field. He'll benefit significantly from Raphinha's comeback.
CM: Frenkie De Jong—The Dutch midfielder will probably lead Barcelona as captain after being unavailable for their previous league fixture due to suspension.
CM: Marc Casadó—Last season's breakthrough star has been largely invisible recently. Pedri's ongoing absence from the starting eleven has created a major problem for Flick, and Casadó will be the next player given an opportunity to fill the void left by Barça's midfield genius.
RW: Lamine Yamal—Marc Cucurella outperformed Barcelona's No.10 during the midweek clash. Nevertheless, the youngster was central to Barça's most promising moments at Stamford Bridge and continues to be the team's primary attacking weapon—despite not being fully fit.
AM: Dani Olmo—Olmo hasn't contributed a goal or assist for the Catalans since September and has been largely ineffective this season. The attacking midfielder must rediscover his best form or face mounting pressure when López returns.
LW: Raphinha—The dynamic Brazilian is finally available again. It's difficult to measure how much Barça have missed his presence. Raphinha spearheads the team's intense pressing approach and his creativity in the attacking third elevates Barcelona's offensive play to new heights.
ST: Robert Lewandowski—The experienced Polish striker has netted four times in his previous two league appearances and looks to extend his scoring run. Despite struggling alongside many teammates against Chelsea, he remains Flick's premier choice to spearhead the attack.
