Enrique’s Warning: Alaves Pose Serious Threat
Luis Enrique has sounded the alarm ahead of Barcelona‘s crucial La Liga clash against Alaves at Mendizorrotza Stadium this weekend. The Barcelona manager knows firsthand the danger posed by the newly-promoted side, having suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat to them at Camp Nou earlier this season.
“What makes Alaves special isn’t just their results, but how they’ve achieved them,” Enrique told Mostbet in his pre-match press conference. “To maintain this level of performance as a newly-promoted team with a new coach is extraordinary. They’ve been the revelation of Spanish football this season.”
Tactical Battle: Pellegrino’s Surprise Packages
The first meeting between these sides saw Alaves deploy an unusual 5-4-1 defensive system that completely neutralized Barcelona‘s attacking threats. Enrique revealed his team has been studying that match intensely:
“They surprised us with that formation which they haven’t used since. Normally Pellegrino prefers a 4-2-3-1, but we need to be prepared for anything. Their defensive organization is among the best in La Liga.”
Key tactical questions for this match:
- Can Alaves replicate their Camp Nou heroics?
- Will Barcelona’s fatigue from 13 intense games show?
- How will Pellegrino adjust his approach for the home fixture?
Squad Updates: Injury Concerns for Both Sides
Barcelona‘s preparations have been complicated by several injury concerns:
- Javier Mascherano (thigh injury) ruled out
- Rafinha (broken nose) possible return
- Gerard Pique and Arda Turan missed training
- Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets back in contention
For Alaves, their Copa del Rey hero Edgar Mendez will miss the match after picking up a leg injury during their semifinal victory over Celta Vigo. This is a significant blow as the winger has been crucial to their counterattacking success this season.
The Psychological Factor: Copa del Rey Final Preview
This match carries extra significance as the two teams will meet again in the Copa del Rey final on May 27. Alaves manager Mauricio Pellegrino acknowledged the challenge:
“To beat Barcelona, everything needs to align perfectly. We’re facing one of the world’s best teams filled with stars. Our performance needs to be at absolute maximum to have any chance.”
Enrique downplayed the psychological aspect: “Right now we’re focused only on the league match. The final is months away – both teams will be different by then.”
Mostbet Match Prediction
Considering Alaves’ impressive home record and Barcelona’s injury concerns, this could be closer than many expect. However, with Messi and Suarez in form, Barcelona’s quality should ultimately prevail in a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
Key factors to watch:
- Alaves’ defensive organization
- Barcelona’s midfield control without Mascherano
- Set piece situations (Alaves’ strength)
- Impact of potential squad rotation
Don’t miss this intriguing La Liga clash – follow Mostbet for live updates and expert analysis throughout the match!
