Barcelona midfielder unlikely to start vs Alaves: Here’s what Flick is planning | OneFootball

After a disappointing loss to Chelsea in midweek, Barcelona will look to bounce back to form as they take on Deportivo Alaves later today.

Heading into this game, there is much excitement surrounding Pedri and his potential participation in the game.

The Spanish midfielder was not part of the Barcelona squad vs Chelsea. But he is expected to be back in action this weekend.

Barcelona playing the long game

However, according to Diario SPORT, Barcelona are not too keen on rushing Pedri directly back into action.

In fact, the Spanish international will not start the game under any circumstances and will only play a few minutes to gain rhythm.

Barcelona’s bigger goal will Pedri is to have him recover faster heading into games against Real Betis and Atletico Madrid at the start of December.

Pedri is only expected to play a few minutes vs Alaves. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

It appears Barça view those matches as critical to the club’s chances of keeping up with Real Madrid at the top of the table.

As for Alaves, Hansi Flick is banking on Marc Casado to provide the goods, with the youngster set to start alongside Frenkie de Jong in the double-pivot.

It will be interesting to see when exactly the German plans to bring on Pedri. But he will hope he won’t need his services regardless of when he plays.

While Pedri may not be fit enough to start, Flick is expected to field Raphinha in the starting eleven this afternoon.

The Brazilian’s return will mark the reunion of Barcelona’s dream front trio of him, Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal.