Barcelona's 4-2-3-1 Lineup Features De Jong and Adeyemi Against Alaves

Barcelona Aims for Recovery Against Deportivo Alaves Following Recent Defeats

After suffering setbacks against PSG and Real Madrid last week, Barcelona looks to regain its momentum as they prepare to face Deportivo Alaves later tonight at the Spotify Camp Nou.

The Blaugrana currently hold the top position in the La Liga standings, although their lead has decreased following a 1-2 loss in the recent El Clasico.

Atletico Madrid, who occupy second place, trail Barcelona by just two points, while third-placed Real Madrid has narrowed the gap to three points.

It is crucial for Hansi Flick and his team to return to winning form tonight and secure a victory against an Alaves side that has struggled, failing to win any of their last six matches, including a 1-1 draw against Malaga.

This matchup presents an excellent opportunity for Barcelona to bounce back ahead of tougher games against Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid planned for next week.

However, the team faces challenges with injuries, as Xavi Espart has joined the ranks of sidelined players, which include Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, Dani Olmo, and Roony Bardghji, leaving Flick without key defensive options.

In light of these circumstances, here’s a look at how the German coach might organize his Barcelona lineup against Alaves this evening.

Defence

Joan Garcia is set to start in goal and will aim to achieve a clean sheet, having conceded in his last four matches.

With several absentees in the defensive line, Flick is expected to implement an experimental backline that he tested out in training prior to the match.

Frenkie de Jong, returning from injury during the Clasico, is anticipated to start at centre-back alongside Pau Cubarsi, allowing Gerard Martin to take a break.

Debut at long last? (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Additionally, academy talent Brian Farinas is primed to make his official debut for Barcelona, taking the right-back spot he occupied during pre-season.

Joao Cancelo is expected to remain on the left side of the defence, with Alejandro Balde benched once again.

Midfield

Flick will likely keep the midfield unchanged, prioritizing a swift return to form for the team.

The midfield duo of Pedri and Rodri is set to feature again against Alaves, meaning that Gavi and Marc Bernal may need to wait on the bench for their chance later in the match.

Fermin Lopez will probably take the attacking midfield role, especially as Dani Olmo is unavailable due to injury.

Attack

A chance for Adeyemi. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Karim Adeyemi may receive a chance to shine on the left side after Anthony Gordon started in previous matches against PSG and Real Madrid.

Adeyemi aims to seize this opportunity and enhance his prospects within the attacking lineup.

On the right flank, the notable presence of star player Lamine Yamal continues, while club captain and leading goalscorer Raphinha is set to play as the centre-forward.