Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has provided an update on the squad ahead of Saturday's La Liga clash against Deportivo Alavés, revealing mixed news regarding the lineup. The biggest piece of news is the anticipated return of midfielder Pedri González, who could make his first appearance since suffering a hamstring tear last month, while defender Ronald Araujo is confirmed to be out due to illness.
The context of the match and its importance for Barcelona
This match comes at a critical time for Barcelona, who are desperately trying to erase the memory of their crushing 3-0 defeat to Chelsea in the Champions League. That loss wasn't just a European setback; it has also placed added pressure on the team to focus on the domestic competition. The Catalan club is looking to continue their pursuit of arch-rivals Real Madrid, who lead the La Liga table by a single point, making every match a do-or-die final if they are to keep their title hopes alive.
Pedri's gradual return and Araujo's significant absence
At Friday's press conference, Flick explained that Pedri's return would be cautious and gradual. He said, "He'll play a few minutes, but he won't be in the starting lineup. He'll come on in the second half if possible; we'll see." Pedri's return is a huge boost for the team, given his pivotal role in building attacks and providing creative solutions in the final third, something Barcelona sorely missed during his absence. On the other hand, Araujo's absence will pose a challenge for the team's defense, as Flick confirmed: "(Araujo) has a stomach virus and will be out for today and tomorrow as well.".
An attacking boost with the return of Rafinha
The German coach expressed great enthusiasm for the return of Brazilian winger Rafinha, who has fully recovered after an absence of nearly two months due to a hamstring injury. Rafinha appeared as a substitute in the last two matches, and Flick is looking to rely on him more. He said of him: “I missed him. I see him as one of our most important players… He is hungry (to play) and has the will to show how good he is.” With the return of Pedri, Rafinha, and Marcos Alonso, the injury crisis that plagued the team seems to be easing.
A message to Lamine Yamal and a focus on the future
Flick also addressed young star Lamine Yamal's reaction after being substituted in the Chelsea match, downplaying the incident. He explained: "I was a player too, and perhaps sometimes my reaction wasn't appropriate, but ultimately it's about emotion." He then addressed the player directly, saying: "The next step for Lamine is to show again that it's not about that match; he needs to forget about it. Alavés is what matters now, and he needs to show his best." Flick concluded by emphasizing that the team has moved past the European disappointment and is now looking forward positively to winning the remaining matches until the end of the year.
