Flick Makes Heavy Rotations Against Alavés
Barcelona’s dream of reaching 100 points came to an end after a shocking away defeat to Deportivo Alavés. Barca came into the match with heavy rotations from the last match; Flick rested Pedri, Joan Garcia, Gavi, Martin, Cancelo, Eric Garcia, Ferran Torres, and Fermin Lopez.
The surprise entry to the starting 11 was left center back Álvaro Cortés, but he impressed everyone with a great debut display.
Alavés Punish Barcelona With Disciplined Display
The match was supposed to be an easy fixture for Barca, as they are facing a side from a relegation battle, but Alavés completely flipped the script on their home ground with an impressive attacking and defensive display. Ibrahim Diabate scored the winner for Alavés from a corner where Bernal failed to defend the player physically. They also did an impressive low block display and completely neutralized Barcelona's attack and midfield.
Barcelona Attack Completely Neutralized
This night was a shocker to Barcelona because the team was really pathetic on the pitch. Flick did heavy rotation and brought in Pedri, Cancelo, and Ferran as substitutes, but no one delivered the goal for the Catalans. This match was a complete tactical collapse from Barcelona and a total disappointment for Flick as the team failed to achieve 100 points.
Álvaro Cortés Impresses On Senior Debut
The only player who stood out in the team was Alvaro Cortes, who debuted in the match; he delivered an impressive performance as a debutant with 100% tackle won, 100% dribble won, neat long balls, and good ball carrying. The 21-year-old Spaniard is expected to be with Barcelona for the next preseason matches and a part of the squad from next season.
