Official: Barcelona starting lineup against Alaves – first start of the season for midfield gem

FC Barcelona can go to the top of the table in La Liga today as they get set to take on Deportivo Alaves at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Only one point behind leaders Real Madrid, the reigning champions can claim pole position for themselves with a victory that is very much needed after the midweek loss to Chelsea in the Champions League.

With kickoff not very far away, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has announced the starting XI that will take the field against Alaves, with there being some interesting calls.

Marc Bernal, who has been used carefully since his return from ACL injury, makes his first start of the season in midfield, with Frenkie de Jong unavailable and Pedri not ready to start yet.

Bernal pairs up with fellow academy graduate Marc Casado in the centre of the park, while Dani Olmo comes in as the No. 10 with Fermin Lopez out injured.

Meanwhile, in defence, Eric Garcia slots in at right-back, replacing Jules Kounde, while Alejandro Balde continues on the left.

Pau Cubarsi pairs up with Gerard Martin at the heart of the defence, with the youngster slotting in as the left-sided centre-back. Joan Garcia starts in goal as usual.

The attack sees Flick pair the trio of Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha for the first time in a starting XI this season.