Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has made changes to his team for tonight’s game against Alaves, handing Brian Farinas his first start of the season at right-back, while Frenkie de Jong will play in central defence.

Injuries to Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde and Xavi Espart have left Barcelona short of options defensively, and Flick spoke about his team selection before kick-off at Camp Nou.

“I spoke with both of them before the match. They both told me they were ready and that they wanted to help the team,” he told Movistar.

“We know full well that these aren’t the positions they usually play. But we’ve worked with them during rehearsals on interpreting these roles, and things are looking good. We have great confidence in both of them, and I’m sure they’ll give their all for the team.

“It is extremely important, it is absolutely essential that we win today. If we want to win La Liga, we must return to the top of the standings,” he added.

“We are in fierce competition with Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Real Betis. These are very impressive teams, so it is very important for us to take all three points today.”

Barcelona head into the match needing to bounce back from defeats to PSG in the Champions League and Real Madrid in La Liga.

Victory will see Barca knock Atletico off the top of the table after Diego Simeone’s side moved above Barca earlier in the day with a victory over Levante.