Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has named a 22-man squad for Monday's La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano at the Camp Nou. According to a report from Sport, the German coach has kept virtually the same group that defeated Athletic Club, aiming for a third consecutive win to reclaim the top spot in the league.
Real Madrid currently leads Barcelona by one goal in goal difference after their win over Málaga, meaning Barça need a victory by at least two goals to return to the summit of the standings. The only way to secure nine points from the first three matchdays would be with a Culé win, as Madrid also have the chance to do so.
Who are the confirmed absentees?
Flick will be without two key midfielders. Gavi is ruled out as a precaution after a knock received in the match against Elche. Frenkie de Jong continues with his conservative treatment on his knee and there is no estimated timeframe for his return. The only tactical omission is Marc Casadó, whose future remains unresolved following Héctor Fort's move to Real Sociedad.
In defence, Alejandro Balde is included in the list despite late rumours of a potential swap deal with Inter Milan for Federico Dimarco. The Spanish full-back remains an option for the German coach for this fixture.
What is the situation with the goalkeepers and new signings?
One of the major uncertainties surrounds Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic. The shot-stopper is not registered with LaLiga and his definitive place in the squad depends on decisions made regarding Financial Fair Play at the close of the transfer window, set for midnight on Tuesday. Meanwhile, youngster Eder Aller will continue as the third-choice goalkeeper, behind Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny.
Furthermore, new signing Gabriel Jesus is not yet available. The Brazilian forward is awaiting his medical examination and to sign his two-season contract before he can join the squad. His arrival is expected in the coming days, once all formalities are completed.
Which youth team players have been called up?
The squad list includes several academy players, reflecting Flick's trust in La Masia. Besides goalkeeper Eder Aller, midfielders Álex Fariñas and Hamsa have also been called up. It is worth noting that defender Xavi Espart already has a first-team squad number and is part of the defensive options for this match.
The team approaches the game in high spirits after their first two wins. The next fixture on Barcelona's schedule is on Sunday, September 7th, a visit to Mendizorrotza to face Deportivo Alavés.
Full squad list:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Joan Garcia, Szczesny, Eder Aller |
| Defenders | Cancelo, Balde, Cubarsí, Xavi Espart, Christensen, Gerard Martín, Koundé, Eric Garcia |
| Midfielders | Fermín, Pedri, Rodri, Olmo, Bernal, Fariñas |
| Forwards | Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Adeyemi, Gordon, Hamsa |
