Barcelona Confirm Starting XI Against Alaves as Hansi Flick Makes Key Selection Decisions

Barcelona have officially announced their starting XI for their La Liga encounter against Deportivo Alaves, with manager Hansi Flick selecting a strong lineup as the Catalan giants look to return to winning ways.

The highly anticipated fixture takes place at Spotify Camp Nou on Saturday, October 31, 2026, with Barcelona determined to strengthen their position at the top of the La Liga table.

Following their disappointing 2-1 defeat against Real Madrid in the recent El Clasico, Barcelona will be eager to deliver a convincing performance in front of their home supporters.

Barcelona's Confirmed Starting XI

Hansi Flick has selected the following players for the important encounter:

Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia.

Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin and Alejandro Balde.

Midfielders: Rodrigo, Pedri and Fermin Lopez.

Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Anthony Gordon.

The lineup reflects Flick's intention to maintain Barcelona's attacking identity while ensuring sufficient balance across the different areas of the pitch.

Lamine Yamal and Raphinha Lead the Attack

One of the biggest talking points is the inclusion of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha in Barcelona's attacking department.

Both players possess the technical ability, creativity and individual quality to cause serious problems for opposition defenders.

Yamal's ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations makes him an important attacking weapon, while Raphinha brings experience, movement and a significant goal threat.

Anthony Gordon also provides additional pace and directness, giving Barcelona another option when attacking Alaves' defensive structure.

In midfield, Pedri and Fermin Lopez will be expected to influence proceedings through their movement, passing and creativity.

Barcelona Face Important Injury Concerns

Despite naming a competitive starting XI, Barcelona continue to deal with several injury problems.

Andreas Christensen, Roony Bardghji, Dani Olmo, Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde and Xavi Espart remain unavailable for selection.

These absences have forced Flick to consider alternative defensive arrangements and rely on other squad members.

Three Important Points at Stake

Barcelona enter this encounter as league leaders, having collected 27 points from their opening 10 matches.

Alaves, however, should not be underestimated. They previously defeated Barcelona last season and will be hoping to produce another difficult evening for the Catalan giants.

With the pressure to respond after consecutive defeats against PSG and Real Madrid, Saturday's encounter represents an important opportunity for Flick's team.

Barcelona supporters will now be hoping their players deliver the performance required to secure all three points and maintain their position at the summit of La Liga.

Source:

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