Barcelona’s Crucial Clash: Pressure Mounts as Alaves Aims to Exploit Uncertainty

With Girona and Real Madrid securing victories on Saturday, Barcelona faces heightened pressure to secure three points when they host Alaves at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on Sunday. The Catalans, reeling from consecutive lackluster performances against Real Sociedad and Shakhtar Donetsk, not only seek a win but also a commanding display against their Basque opponents.

In a significant development, Pedri is poised to make his first start since August, featuring in midfield alongside Oriol Romeu and Ilkay Gundogan, as reported by Marca. Fermin Lopez is relegated to the bench, and Gavi’s suspension adds to Barcelona’s lineup adjustments. Lamine Yamal eyes his first start since the victory over Shakhtar in October, while the center-back partnership of Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo is anticipated.

Alaves, breaking a seven-match winless streak with a victory over Almeria last weekend, aims to capitalize on the uncertainty surrounding their hosts. On-loan forward Samu Omorodion is set to start, potentially posing challenges for the Barcelona backline.

As securing victory becomes imperative for Barcelona on Sunday afternoon, the added weight of delivering a strong performance adds complexity for Xavi Hernandez’s side. Alaves, sensing an opportunity in the midst of uncertainty, looks to exploit the pressure and potentially secure another positive result.