Barcelona 'big guns' Raphinha, Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski set to face Alaves

With a busy December ahead, the coach said he wanted "fresh legs and sharp decisions" as the club dealt with yet another wave of injuries.

Flick confirmed that Ronald Araujo would miss out after a stomach virus kept him out of two training sessions. His absence forced a defensive rethink, with Pau Cubarsi expected to partner Eric Garcia at centre-back, while Gerard Martin remained an option if further adjustments were needed.

The injury problems continued in midfield. Fermin Lopez, who had delivered important performances this season, was ruled out for around two weeks with a soleus injury. Flick admitted it was "a tough moment for him and for us".

Dani Olmo was set to take over as the main creative presence, with Marc Casado likely to rejoin Frenkie de Jong in the engine room. This shift would return Garcia to his natural defensive role after covering in the pivot recently.

There was positive news too. Pedri had completed his recovery and was expected to feature from the bench. But the major boost came in attack, where Raphinha was in line for his first start since returning from injury. Flick has said the Brazilian's comeback "gives us a different rhythm".

His return completed Barcelona's first-choice front three alongside the electric Yamal and the experienced Lewandowski, a trio the staff believed could "change the momentum of games".

Marcus Rashford remained a strong contender after his midweek bench role at Stamford Bridge, but all signs pointed to Raphinha reclaiming his place as Barcelona looked to strike with renewed intensity at the Spotify Camp Nou.

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