Hansi Flick’s Barcelona Revolution: Key Returns & Young Talent Shine Against Alavés

A new era is truly underway at Spotify Camp Nou! As FC Barcelona prepares to clash with Deportivo Alavés this afternoon (4:15 PM local time / DAZN), the lineup announced by coach Hansi Flick has sent ripples of excitement and anticipation throughout the football world. Coinciding with the club’s 126th anniversary, this fixture promises to be a pivotal moment, showcasing a blend of returning stars and promising youth under Flick’s innovative vision.

The most significant headlines revolve around the much-anticipated return of the ‘lethal trident’ in attack, the surprise inclusion of a young midfielder, and some notable absences that demand strategic adjustments. Let’s dive into the tactical revolution Flick is engineering for this crucial encounter.

The Reimagined Attacking Trident Takes Center Stage

Barcelona’s attacking prowess is set for a major boost with the long-awaited return of Raphinha to the starting XI. After more than two months sidelined, the Brazilian winger is back to form a formidable front three alongside the electrifying Lamine Yamal and the ever-reliable Robert Lewandowski. This trio is expected to inject pace, creativity, and clinical finishing into the Blaugrana’s offense, a clear indicator of Flick’s intent to dominate proceedings from the first whistle.

Bernal’s Big Opportunity: A Midfield Maestro Emerges

Perhaps the most intriguing decision sees Hansi Flick placing his trust in young Marc Bernal, granting him his first start since a severe knee injury sustained back in August 2024. Bernal, who has only accumulated 48 minutes across six appearances this season, will be central to the midfield dynamics. He is set to partner Marc Casadó in a double pivot, a pairing last seen in the Rayo-Barça fixture, hinting at a robust yet fluid central presence. Dani Olmo will complete the midfield setup, operating in an attacking midfield role, tasked with linking play and creating chances.

Defensive Stalwarts and Goalkeeping Choices

Between the posts, Joan Garcia will guard the goal, flanked by a defensive line composed of Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, and Alejandro Balde. This defensive quartet aims to provide stability and swift transitions, crucial against an organized Alavés side.

Bench Strength and Key Absences

While the starting XI is packed with intrigue, the bench also holds significant potential. Fans will be thrilled to see Pedri, now medically cleared, waiting for his opportunity to return to action five weeks after his injury against Real Madrid in El Clásico. His presence offers a huge boost for the second half.

The list of substitutes also includes Wojciech Szczesny, Eder Aller, Andreas Christensen, Tommy Marqués, Pedro Fernández ‘Dro’, Ferran Torres, Marcus Rashford, and Roony Bardghji, offering Flick a range of options for tactical changes.

However, the squad still grapples with a series of significant absences:

• Marc ter Stegen & Gavi: Both are long-term absentees, a substantial blow to the team’s spine.
• Fermín: Out with a minor soleus injury in his right leg.
• Ronald Araujo: Sidelined due to a ‘stomach virus,’ as confirmed by Flick in his pre-match press conference, contracted after the recent Chelsea-Barça match where he was unfortunately sent off.
• Frenkie de Jong: Absent due to personal family reasons.

Anticipation Builds for a Crucial Clash

The match against Deportivo Alavés is more than just three points; it’s a statement. It’s an opportunity for Hansi Flick to cement his tactical philosophy, for returning stars to reclaim their form, and for young talents like Marc Bernal to make their mark. With a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, Barcelona looks poised for an exciting afternoon. All eyes will be on Spotify Camp Nou as Flick’s revamped squad aims to secure a dominant victory.