Preview and predicted line-ups as champions head to La Liga strugglers
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick is demanding no let-up from his players and is eager to finish a successful season with 100 points.
Barca retained the Liga title on Sunday with a remarkably straightforward 2-0 win over Real Madrid but Flick has identified a new target to keep his players engaged over the remaining three games.
Speaking ahead of tomorrow night’s trip to Alaves and following Monday’s trophy parade through the streets of Barcelona, he said: “Our goal is to get the 100 points, and for this you have to win the three games. We have celebrated a lot but it is also possible to continue playing well.”
Flick also, inadvertently, confirmed he had signed a new contract at Camp Nou. It was a largely open secret but the club had yet to reveal the German had penned new terms.
He added: “Has this been announced? I’m sorry, but I’ve had a lot on my mind. I am very grateful to the club for being able to train until 2028. The club will have the right to stop it, me too. That optional year will be discussed.
“It is a very good agreement for both parties. They have shown me that this is the place where I want to be. It is a commitment on our part too, harder than this season to achieve new goals and titles. Everyone has the dream of the Champions League and we will try again, I feel grateful.”
Flick has several issues to figure out over the summer with Robert Lewandowski set to leave when his contract expires and the future of on-loan striker Marcus Rashford also uncertain.
Rashford scored a brilliant opener against Madrid and has outlined his eagerness to stay but Barca are refusing to confirm whether or not they wish to trigger his €30million option.
Flick said of the pair: “At the end of the season we will analyse everything and see what happens. Marcus has given us a lot, his stats are good, I am happy and appreciate his work.
“About Robert, what else can I say? I have won titles with him, I am very proud to be the coach of a player as incredible as this but things are as they are and we will see what happens next season.”
Alaves can only dream of having such problems. Quique Sanchez Flores’ side are 18th in the Liga table, the final relegation spot.
They have hope, though. After facing Barca, they take on already relegated Oviedo before hosting a Rayo Vallecano side likely to have one eye on the Conference League final against Crystal Palace.
Team news for Alaves v Barcelona
Sanchez Flores is optimistic forward Toni Martinez will be fit to start. Lucas Boye could make the squad but will be restricted to a place on the bench. Carles Aleñà returns from suspension.
Flick is likely to rotate his XI and provide minutes for players that have not appeared regularly in recent weeks. Lamine Yamal remains sidelined.
