Aguero set to stay in hospital for further tests - report

Photo by Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The Argentine has been diagnosed with a cardiac arrhythmia

Barcelona striker Sergio Aguero looks set to stay in hospital for a little longer for more tests on his heart after he was taken off against Alaves on Saturday.

The Argentine was forced off in the first half and the club subsequently confirmed he had been taken to hospital for a cardiac exam.

Reports on Sunday have claimed Aguero has been diagnosed with a cardiac arrhythmia and will now undergo further tests.

The striker is said to be trying to keep calm but is, understandably, a little worried about his condition. At the moment it’s not clear when he will be allowed to leave hospital.

Mundo Deportivo have reported Aguero’s mother, brother and girlfriend have been to visit him in hospital “and left with their thumbs up as a sign that things were going well.”

The news means that Barcelona will obviously have to cope without Aguero once again. The striker has already missed the start of the season after sustaining a calf injury in pre-season.

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Messi’s already talking about a return to Barcelona

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The GOAT fancies the job of technical secretary

Lionel Messi has given a new interview where he’s talked up the possibility of returning to Barcelona at some point in the future.

The GOAT is currently with French side Paris Saint-Germain after being forced to leave the Camp Nou over the summer.

Messi says he’d love to come back and work as the club’s technical secretary once he’s finally hung up his boots.

“I always said that I would love to be able to help the club and be useful wherever I can. I would love to be a technical secretary at some point. I don’t know if it will be at Barcelona or not. Or if it will be otherwise,” he said.

“If there is a possibility, I would like to contribute again in what I can because it is the club that I love and I would love for it to continue to be good, to continue growing and to continue being one of the best in the world.”

Source | Diario Sport

The quotes are a sneak preview from the interview which is due to be published in full on Monday and will be worth looking out for. The Argentine spoke to Diario Sport for half an hour about his time at Barcelona, the Ballon d’Or and life in Paris.

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Barcelona trio train ahead of UCL tie at Dynamo Kiev

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Some good news on the injury front

Barcelona have been handed some good news on the injury front with Ansu Fati, Frenkie de Jong and Sergi Roberto all taking part in Sunday’s recovery session at the Ciutat Esportiva.

The trio all joined the group and it’s hoped they may be available for Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Dynamo Kiev in Ukraine.

Barca will train again on Monday morning before the club’s pre-match press conference where we might get more of an idea of who will be available.

Ousmane Dembele also seems close to getting the green light to play. It had been expected he would make the squad for Alaves but he missed out once again.

@Dembouz, @ANSUFATI & @DeJongFrenkie21 join the group for part of the training session pic.twitter.com/2Lpd9aPpH6

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 31, 2021

However, there will be no Gerard Pique with Barca confirming that the defender has a calf strain and is set for a spell on the sidelines.

“Tests this morning confirmed first-team player Gerard Piqué has a right calf strain and will be out for the forseeable future,” read a club statement.

Sergio Aguero will also miss the trip to Ukraine. The striker remains in hospital after being taken off against Alaves and sent to hospital for a cardiac tests.

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Barcelona need a leader so they can believe in themselves again

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The players look lost and low on confidence but that could change soon

In his Masterclass that came out recently, Xavi talks about the importance of viewing the ball as a treasure and not a bomb.

Something you desire because, when you have it, you control your opponents and the game.

That continues to be a truism in the game of modern football that he helped usher in.

Against Alaves, it was mission accomplished. 80% possession resulting in 16 shots and 5 on target.

Good stats, and what seemed like an improvement on recent performances in live play.

So what went wrong? Does the philosophy need updating, or are the Barca players just doing it wrong?

When you see Xavi gesticulate and shout as he talks football, as many good managers do, his passion for the game is obvious.

It’s a puzzle he wants to solve.

A belief he stands behind.

A plan he wants to put into action.

That’s leadership you believe in.

Photo by KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images

It’s what this Barcelona team is missing on and off the field.

These Barca players are book smart, but freeze up once they hit the streets.

No one is stepping up to command the troops.

To score the goal.

To make the tackle.

To take the risk that breaks down the defensive line.

Everyone is waiting for someone else to take the lead.

Perhaps that’s the biggest indictment on the captains. Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique, for all they are capable of giving under the right circumstances, are too timid to be good leaders.

And given the sloppy play of late, they aren’t leading by example either.

On the field, Barcelona doesn’t need to find the next Lionel Messi. They need to find the next Javier Mascherano or Carles Puyol.

Players willing to do the hard work in the background while their talented teammates shine. Energizers with a warrior spirit.

No one was great against Alaves, but from the standpoint of playing with pride and intensity, recognition should be given to Gavi, and even Riqui Puig and Alejandro Balde during their brief cameos.

Photo by Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images

If Xavi arrives, he will be an upgrade right away because he’ll bring with him a playbook with proven success, and a commitment to really giving it a go.

The Barca players will listen because they’ll see a man who really believes in what he’s saying.

They may even be inspired.

But stepping onto the field is like going to battle. You need commanders who will rally the troops. Keep them organized. Have them play with courage, and confidence in the fight they are taking on.

In the years since Xavi left the team, that spirit has gone away.

The big question will be whether he can bring it back, and bring out the same attitude in the players.

That day can’t come soon enough as far as I’m concerned.

This team needs a leader now.

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Barjuan gives his verdict on Barca’s draw with Alaves

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The interim coach could not find a win

Barcelona interim coach Sergi Barjuan felt his side deserved more than just a point against Alaves in La Liga on Saturday.

Barjuan took charge of the team for the first time since taking over from Ronald Koeman but saw his team held after Luis Rioja cancelled out Memphis Depay’s opener.

Here’s what the Barcelona coach made of it all.

“It’s feel a bit like we haven’t got a reward for the work we did,” he said.

“Today I’ve planned the game as we should, with possession, breaking through the lines, and if I’m in charge on Tuesday in Kiev, we’ll do the same.”

“We’ll try to lift the team again, they know that they are very good and that they have to believe in themselves.

“I’ve had very little time to work. I’ve tried to bring order defensively and offensively and I think they’ve done that a lot, we’ve corrected a few things.

“When there’s a negative result, it’s difficult to bounce back.”

Barjuan must now prepare for a Champions League match against Dynamo Kiev in Ukraine on Tuesday which the visitors really have to win.

A goal from Gerard Pique saw Barca win the reverse fixture 1-0 at the Camp Nou, but the defender is one of a host of players likely to be missing the game through injury.

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Five talking points from Barcelona 1-1 Alaves

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The Catalans dropped points again

Barca’s problems continue under Barjuan

Sergi Barjuan took charge of Barcelona for the first time on Saturday but couldn’t find a win against Alaves as the Catalan giants dropped points yet again.

There were a few positive signs under the new boss initially as the team moved the ball much quicker and had Memphis Depay and Sergino Dest supplying the width.

Yet the same old failings were on view once again. The team struggled in front of goal yet again and conceded yet another soft goal from Alaves’s first shot on target.

16 - Barcelona have taken 16 points from 11 games in LaLiga 2021/22 (W4 D4 L3), equalling their worst start at this stage in the three points for a win era (also 16 in the 2000/2001 and 2002/03 campaigns). Obstacle. pic.twitter.com/OAZFpFtAKX

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) October 30, 2021

It’s now three games without a win for Barca in La Liga that keeps the team down in ninth and eight points behind Real Madrid.

Barjuan will take charge once again on Tuesday against Dynamo Kiev but Barca will know they need to get a new manager in as quickly as possible.

Injuries piling up for Barca

Photo by Xavier Bonilla/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Barcelona went into Saturday’s match without seven first-team players due to injury and saw three more players forced off against Alaves.

Sergio Aguero left before half-time and was taken to hospital for a cardiac exam, Gerard Pique has a calf strain and Nico Gonzalez also asked to be replaced.

Reports after the match claimed that Pique has been playing with an injury since El Clasico which will raise more questions about Barca’s medical staff.

There were similar reports about Frenkie de Jong, while there have been suggestions Pedri suffered a relapse after being returned to action too soon.

It’s not clear yet who, if any, of Barca’s injured players will be back for the Dynamo Kiev clash but it will certainly be a depleted squad that flies out to Ukraine.

Garcia’s getting better

One player who is available and is quietly improving at Barcelona is Eric Garcia. The defender had a pretty torrid start but has looking far more settled in Barca’s last three games.

The 20-year-old was the pick of Barca’s defenders against Alaves, carrying the ball out from the back well and almost opening the scoring with a strong header.

| Eric García vs Alavés.

• 127 Touches.
• 112 Passes. (Most)
• 96% Passing Accuracy. (Highest)
• 1 Chance Created.
• 1 Key Pass.
• 1 Shot On Target.
• 2/4 Duels Won.
• 1 Clearance.
• 1 Aerial Won.
• 2 Interceptions.
• 6 Ball Recoveries.

He is improving! pic.twitter.com/j072pNVRw5

— Barça Buzz (@Barca_Buzz) October 30, 2021

Garcia’s improved form comes at a good time with Pique potentially set to miss some game time due to injury. It’s not clear when Ronald Araujo will be back but it will be good to see the two youngsters together when the Uruguayan is back to full fitness.

Pique’s injury does mean it’s likely that Clement Lenglet will get a rare start against Dynamo Kiev. The Frenchman came on as a substitute against Alaves and played the last 20 minutes.

Nico & Gavi show up Coutinho

Eric wasn’t the only Barca youngster to impress against Alaves. Midfielders Nico Gonzalez and Gavi also started and showed once again how hugely talented they both are.

Gavi’s touch and skill on the ball were sublime at times and he produced a brilliant run and pass to tee up Memphis for another chance which the Dutchman poked goalwards but saw hit the post.

| Gavi vs Alaves.

• 86 Touches.
• 61/67 Accurate Passes. (91%)
• 3 Chances Created. (1 Big)
• 3 Key Passes.
• 2 Crosses.
• 1 Shot.
• 6/12 Duels Won.
• 3 Dribbles.
• 1 Aerial Won.
• 1 Tackle
• 6 Ball Recoveries.

One of his best games for Barcelona. Absolute Gem! pic.twitter.com/TqjouqRrMn

— Barça Buzz (@Barca_Buzz) October 30, 2021

There was also a delicious scooped pass to Jordi Alba which brought another sight of goal but the left-back couldn’t control the ball and the chance went begging.

Meanwhile, Nico simply picked up where he left off against Rayo with another stand-out performance. The 19-year-old is quickly making a very solid claim for a starting spot at Barcelona.

| Nico González vs Alavés.

• 70 Touches.
• 50/54 Passes.
• 2 Crosses.
• 1 Chance Created.
• 1 Key Pass.
• 2 Shots.
• 5/8 Duels Won.
• 3 Dribbles.
• 2 Tackles.
• 4 Ball Recoveries.

Another great performance, following the one in the previous game vs Rayo! pic.twitter.com/aIhFLH5MaM

— Barça Buzz (@Barca_Buzz) October 30, 2021

Both players easily outshone Philippe Coutinho who struggled after coming on in the first half. The Brazilian was whistled by supporters when he replaced Aguero and offered nothing but speculative shots that drifted far over the crossbar.

Memphis strike lights up half-empty Camp Nou

Barcelona’s only goal of the game came from the right boot of Memphis Depay. It was a pretty special effort from the Dutchman too who curled home from just outside the penalty area to make it 1-0.

It was a pretty special effort from Memphis and his first from open play from Barcelona since August which should given the Netherlands international something of a boost in confidence.

13 - Only Lionel Messi (34) has scored more goals from outside the box than Memphis Depay in the top five European leagues since the start of 2018 (13, level with Dries Mertens ). Missile. pic.twitter.com/XxiGyPy6aN

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) October 30, 2021

Memphis’s goal was seen by just 37,238 spectators at the Camp Nou as Barca recorded their lowest attendance for 20 years. There are some mitigating factors, Covid, it being a public holiday weekend, the lack of Messi, but it’s still a real concern to see such low numbers.

The forward was unlucky not to grab another when he hit the post but still seemed the only Barca player really likely to score after Aguero had gone off. Barca really need Ansu Fati and Ousmane Dembele back soon to offer more danger in the final third.

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FC Barcelona News: 31 October 2021

Photo By Marc Gonzalez Aloma/Europa Press via Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Barça 1-1 Alavés: Held to a draw - FC Barcelona
Sergi Barjuan’s first game as interim manager of FC Barcelona has ended in a 1-1 draw at Camp Nou. A delightful goal from Memphis just after the break looked to have finally set the team on course for three points, but Alavés bit back quickly with one of their few real attacks... And try as Barça did to make it happen, the second goal just didn’t want to come.

Agüero with chest pain; Piqué with pulled soleus muscle - FC Barcelona
Not only were FC Barcelona unable to defeat Alavés on Saturday, but they also suffered two major setbacks and two players were forced to retire from the game early.

Ez Abde makes senior debut - FC Barcelona
It was not a night of great news at the Camp Nou. Not only was Sergi Barjuan unable to get off to a winning start as caretaker coach, but Sergio Agüero and Gerard Piqué both had to leave the field injured. But at least one person had some reason to smile: Abdessamad Ezzalzouli.

Sergi Roberto has right quadricep strain - FC Barcelona
First-team player Sergi Roberto has a right quadriceps strain. No date has been scheduled for a return as yet. Sergi Roberto has played 12 times this season, with two goals and one assist.

Jordi Alba on “bad” Alaves draw and giving up goals too easily - SPORT
Jordi Alba bemoaned how easily Barcelona give up goals as they were held to a "bad point" by Alaves at Camp Nou on Saturday. The post-Ronald Koeman era began with a 1-1 draw against the Basque side, with Memphis Depay's opener cancelled out by Luis Rioja.

Sergi Barjuan bemoans missed chances as Barcelona draw with Alaves - Football Espana
Barcelona interim boss Sergi Barjuan was left frustrated as his tenure kicked off with a disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Alaves. Barjuan has been placed in temporary charge following the sacking of former head coach Ronald Koeman.

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Barca’s new manager has his work cut out

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Same old, same old...

New Barca, same old story.

There’s nothing fresh or new about a team that have underperformed for the best part of a year now.

In the first 45 it was great to see some of the confident passing we’ve become known for coming to the fore.

There was no end product, but as a confidence builder, that was, to some degree, acceptable.

Once Memphis’ stunner had given Barca the lead, then it really should’ve been game over. That it wasn’t can’t be pinned on Sergi Barjaun’s shoulders.

The caretaker coach has barely had 48 hours to work with this group of players and whilst there was a little more zip about them at times, free of Koeman’s shackles, there was a vast drop off in quality in the second half.

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Whether it’s Xavi or someone else that comes in to steady the ship, they really do have their work cut out. Patience will absolutely be required and not the usual culer tactic of a couple of bad games and out come the white hankies.

If the appointment is semi-immediate, the new incumbent could be without a huge number first team players after Sergio Aguero, Gerard Pique and Nico were added to a growing injury list that includes Pedri, Ousmane Dembele, Frenkie de Jong, Ronald Araujo, Sergi Roberto and Martin Braithwaite.

Taking just a point from a match that on paper should’ve easily been won has left Barca marooned in ninth, and enduring their worst start since the 2002/03 season.

Looking at the situation as a glass half full person, it can’t really get any worse, can it?!

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

As long as no one expects miracles in the immediate aftermath of a new appointment, and he can be allowed to settle into the role, there’s every chance that this phoenix rises from the ashes in triumph.

There is much to admire with Barca’s youngsters and their attitude towards earning their stripes in the first team, and they just need the right man to guide and mentor them.

Xavi would be ideal for any number of reasons, but as Pep Guardiola found when taking over, things don’t always go well just because you’re an old player from the club.

Ronald Koeman can surely attest to that too.

Alaves should be another lesson, and now it’s all about finding the right solutions. If that means putting a few noses out of joint, so be it. We are not a charity.

PS - Someone tell me the point of Philippe Coutinho...

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Barcelona VP offers update on club’s managerial search

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The Catalans do not appear to be in a rush....

Barcelona vice-president Rafael Yuste offered an update on the club’s hunt for a new manager ahead of Saturday’s La Liga match with Alaves.

The Catalan giants continue to be linked with a move for Xavi with the latest reports suggesting the former midfielder will return in time for the game against Espanyol on November 20.

However, president Joan Laporta said on Friday at a news conference that Xavi’s not the only option, and Yuste echoed that statement at the Camp Nou.

“The technical secretariat has been working for a few days to find the best solution. There are several options and Xavi is one of them,” he said.

“Putting timings on us would only add more pressure and could complicate the negotiations.”

Source | Movistar

Sergi Barjuan is the club’s interim coach in the meantime and took charge of the team for the first time on Saturday. However, Barjuan could not start off with a win and had to settle for a 1-1 draw at the Camp Nou.

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Jordi Alba: Alaves draw is a bad point for Barca

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The full-back was not happy after the game

Jordi Alba wasn’t happy to see Barcelona held to a draw against Alaves on Saturday in La Liga and talked about the team’s problems after the match.

The Catalan giants took the lead through a superb striker from Memphis Depay but were undone shortly afterwards when Luis Rioja grabbed a late equalizer.

Barca couldn’t conjure up a winner after that and so dropped points yet again, and Alba knows an improvement is needed.

“It’s a bad point, one from nine, a team like Barca needs more. We are not happy with where we are in the table. It’s really tough for us to score goals. We put pressure on but we’re not scoring,” he said.

“They didn’t have too many chances but we had some. Memphis hit the post but the goal wouldn’t go in.

“Sergi’s style is different from Ronald Koeman’s. We tried hard, but without creating clear cut chances. We can improve on that. I’d like to thank the fans. I know it’s complicated.

“I think we are trying our best. The problem is what happens in both areas, attacking and defending, we aren’t scoring and teams are scoring against us without creating too much. They equalized after five minutes and that hurts a lot.”

The result leaves Barca now eight points behind leaders Real Madrid after 11 games and without a win in their last three matches. Barca must now turn their attentions back to the Champions League where three points are vital against Dynamo Kiev on Tuesday.

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Barcelona offer Aguero and Pique updates

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The two players were taken off at the Camp Nou

Barcelona have offered updates on Sergio Aguero and Gerard Pique after both players were forced off in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Alaves at the Camp Nou.

Aguero went off shortly before half-time after appearing to be suffering from breathing difficulties on the pitch. The striker has been taken to hospital for tests on his heart.

It’s obviously concerning news regarding Aguero so let’s wish him all the best and hope he makes a swift recovery.

| @aguerosergiokun reported chest discomfort and has been admitted to the hospital for a cardiac exam pic.twitter.com/7du9VIz5zO

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 30, 2021

Meanwhile, Pique went off in the second half and has a calf strain. He’ll undergo more tests to determine the severity of the injury but it looks likely he’ll miss Barca’s next game against Dynamo Kiev on Tuesday in the Champions League.

| @3gerardpique has a right calf strain. Further tests are pending to find out the exact extent of the strain pic.twitter.com/IDeru724Hn

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 30, 2021

The news is obviously not good for interim coach Sergi Barjuan ahead of what is a pretty crucial fixture against Dynamo Kiev. It’s thought that Ansu Fati could be available for the game, while Ousmane Dembele may also be passed fit and included in the squad.

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Barça 1-1 Alavés: Recap

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Disappointing result, but an encouraging performance

Barcelona failed to win a third straight match and dropped two points at home against Deportivo Alavés thanks to a 1-1 draw at Camp Nou. In the first game under interim manager Sergi Barjuan, Barça certainly looked a lot more like Barcelona in this one and created enough to win comfortably, but they couldn’t score more than the one goal against an Alavés side that fought hard and earned a valuable point.

FIRST HALF

For the first time in a long time, it was possible to actually recognize a Barcelona team on the pitch. Sergi Barjuan’s side came out in a 4-3-3 with the wingers playing wide and the midfielders running the show, and the offensive moves looked sharp and creative. Barça also pressed well without the ball, and had over 70% possession for the entire half.

There weren’t any great chances, but they could have scored when a Memphis Depay corner found Eric García who headed it on target but Sivera made a top save. A few minutes later, Gavi found Jordi Alba all alone inside the box with a glorious lob pass, but Alba couldn’t sort out his feet and didn’t make any contact with the ball.

Alavés offered zero threat on the counter and slowly began showing cracks in defense, and Barça were the better team at halftime despite the game being goalless. The signs were encouraging, and the goals felt like a matter of time ahead of the second half.

SECOND HALF

Barça started the second half with a goal, and what a goal it was: after a nice triangle between Gavi, Philippe Coutinho and Jordi Alba down the left, Alba found Memphis Depay at the edge of the box and the Dutchman fired a glorious curler into the top corner for the opener.

Alavés then put together their only meaningful attack of the entire game just three minutes later and scored with it: Luis Rioja went on a great solo run down the left, made a great one-two with Joselu and rounded Marc-André ter Stegen before finding the net for the equalizer.

The visitors sat back for the final 40 minutes, including stoppage time, and defended their goal with everything they had while Barça looked for a winner. The Blaugrana created two golden chances with Memphis all alone in front of the keeper, but Depay hit the post then the goalkeeper and couldn’t score his and Barça’s second.

As we reached the final minutes Barça continued to attack with poise and never resorted to aimless crosses into the box, but they could not find one last chance to score a winner and the final whistle came to give each team a point.

The result is disappointing at home against a relegation candidate, and Sergi Barjuan won’t be in charge for long but the performance was quite good. That felt like Barça again, and the team looked a lot more cohesive and organized than they were under Ronald Koeman. There is hope, my friends.

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Barcelona: Ter Stegen; Mingueza (Ez Abde 80’), Piqué (Lenglet 70’), García, Alba; Gavi (Puig 70’), Busquets, Nico (Balde 80’); Dest, Agüero (Coutinho 41’), Memphis

Goa: Memphis (49’)

Alavés: Sivera; Navarro (Martín 20’), Laguardia, Lejeune, Duarte; Pons (Pina 62’), Ndiaye, Moya (García 80’), Rioja; Méndez (Pellistri 62’), Joselu (Sylla 80’)

Goals: Rioja (52’)

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Concern for Aguero after striker is forced off for Barca

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

The Argentine seemed to be having difficulty breathing

Sergio Aguero was forced off in the first half of Barcelona’s La Liga clash with Alaves on Saturday night at the Camp Nou.

The Argentine made his second start in a row for the Catalan giants but only lasted 40 minutes after going to ground holding his throat.

Television replays weren’t able to show exactly what happened to cause the problem but it did seem as though Aguero was having difficulty breathing.

¡Agüero sale al 40'!

Por un malestar en el pecho, el Kun Agüero tuvo que ser sustituido antes de finalizar el primer tiempo. pic.twitter.com/RrOiXPWh17

— ESPN Deportes (@ESPNDeportes) October 30, 2021

A stretcher was called and came on to the pitch but Aguero was able to sit up and then walk off the pitch which is the good news. Sergi Barjuan opted to replace the Argentine with Philippe Coutinho.

There’s been no update from Barcelona yet but ESPN’s Samuel Marsden has shared some news on Aguero.

Says here Aguero's heart rate was much higher than it should have been (tachycardia) & that he's gone to hospital for further tests. Says he's doing OK https://t.co/fb1TCjaV9y

— Samuel Marsden (@samuelmarsden) October 30, 2021

There were more physical issues for Barcelona in the second half too, as the Catalans also lost Gerard Pique to injury. Youngster Nico Gonzalez also asked to be replaced late on after picking up a knock.

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Barça vs Alavés: LIVE BLOG!

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Join us for the first Barcelona La Liga adventure of a new era!

WELCOME TO CAMP NOU!!! The Greatest Stadium on Earth is the site of the beginning of a new era for Barcelona, who welcome Deportivo Alavés for the first match since the sacking of Ronald Koeman. Barça B boss Sergi Barjuan will be the interim manager until club legend Xavi returns, and the Catalans will be looking for a big win against a relegation candidate to boost the more of the team and the fans. Vamos!

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LIVE BLOG

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LINEUPS

BARCELONA

Starting XI: Ter Stegen; Mingueza, García, Piqué, Alba; Nico, Busquets, Gavi; Dest, Agüero, Memphis (4-3-3)

Bench: Neto (GK), Peña (GK), Umtiti, Lenglet, Balde, Puig, Sanz, Coutinho, Demir, Ez Abde, L. De Jong

ALAVÉS

Starting XI: Sivera; Navarro, Lejeune, Laguardia, Duarte; Pons, Moya, Ndiaye, Rioja; Edgar, Joselu (4-4-2)

Bench: Owono (GK), Tachi, Miazga, Sylla, Pina, Guidetti, Saúl, García, Pellistri, I. Martín, Martín, López

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MATCH INFO

Competition/Round: 2021-22 La Liga, Matchday 12

Date/Time: Saturday, October 30, 2021, 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Sunday)

Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Referee: Jorge Figueroa Vázquez

VAR: César Soto Grado

HOW TO WATCH, STREAM LA LIGA

How to watch on TV: Not Available (USA), TSN 1 (Canada), LaLigaTV (UK), SuperSport (Nigeria), MTV (India), Movistar LaLiga (Spain), others

How to watch online: ESPN+ (USA), LaLigaTV (UK), others

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Matchday Thread Rules

We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads:

Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another.

Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!

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Barça squad named for Alavés

Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images

Sergi Barjuan has called up 22 players for Saturday’s match

The next Barcelona match is upon us! The Blaugrana begin a new era as they welcome Deportivo Alavés to Camp Nou for a big La Liga game, and interim manager Sergi Barjuan has called up the following 22 players for Saturday’s match:

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Goalkeepers: 1. Marc-André ter Stegen, 13. Neto, 26. Iñaki Peña

Defenders: 2. Sergiño Dest, 3. Gerard Piqué, 15. Clément Lenglet, 18. Jordi Alba, 22. Óscar Mingueza, 23. Samuel Umtiti, 24. Eric García, 31. Alejandro Balde

Midfielders: 5. Sergio Busquets, 6. Riqui Puig, 11. Yusuf Demir, 14. Philippe Coutinho, 28. Nico González, 30. Gavi, 34. Álvaro Sanz

Forwards: 9. Memphis Depay, 17. Luuk De Jong, 19. Sergio Agüero, 33. Ez Abde

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There are two new names on the list as Barjuan brings two young players with him from Barça B in midfielder Álvaro Sanz and winger Ez Abde. The two have been called up due to several injuries in the squad for this one, as Pedri (thigh), Ansu Fati (knee), Frenkie De Jong (hamstring), Ronald Araujo (hamstring) and Martin Braithwaite (knee) all miss out.

Predicted starting XI (4-3-3):

Ter Stegen; Dest, Piqué, García, Alba; Gavi, Busquets, Coutinho; Demir, Agüero, Memphis

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The match kicks off at 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Sunday), and you can join us to follow and comment all the action.

VISCA EL BARÇA!

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FC Barcelona News: 30 October 2021

Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

PREVIEW | FC Barcelona v Alavés - FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona enters a new era on Saturday at 9.00pm CEST as caretaker manager Sergi Barjuan takes charge of the team for the first time. The 49-year-old, who did such a wonderful job at left-back for the senior side from 1993–2002, and who until now was coaching the reserves, was announced as Ronald Koeman’s interim replacement on Thursday.

The lowdown on Alavés - FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona host Alavés this Saturday at 9.00pm CEST in their first game under caretaker manager Sergi Barjuan. Let’s take a closer look at the team that stands between them and badly needed points.

Coutinho back in the Brazil squad - FC Barcelona
Philippe Coutinho is back in the Brazil squad after an absence of more than a year. The blaugrana midfielder, who on Wednesday featured in his 100th game for Barça, has been called up for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in South America.

Sergi Barjuan ready to 'put joy back in the team' - FC Barcelona
Sergi Barjuan has given his first press conference since taking on the role of caretaker manager at FC Barcelona. "I want to thank the club” he said at an event where he was joined by president Joan Laporta. “But I’d also like to wish all the very best to Ronald Koeman, who I have been working with very closely until now.”

Laporta: 'The situation was unsustainable' - FC Barcelona
Joan Laporta and Sergi Barjuan spoke to the press on Thursday, following the latter’s appointment as interim coach of the FC Barcelona senior team. “Sergi knows the system as was part of one the best teams ever, Johan Cruyff’s Dream Team” said the president. “He is a club man who understands our philosophy. He’s a brave, ambitious man. Today is a day of hope.”

Al Sadd issue statement on Xavi's future amid Barcelona links - Football Espana
Qatari side Al Sadd have offered a reminder to Barcelona over Xavi’s contract at the club. Xavi has been heavily linked with a highly anticipated return to the Camp Nou in the coming weeks with the La Blaugrana board targeting the former Spanish international as Ronald Koeman’s replacement at the club.

Ansu Fati to remain out for Barcelona's clash with Alaves - Football Espana
Barcelona have been dealt an injury blow ahead of their clash with Alaves on Sunday. The Blaugrana have now suffered back-to-back defeats to Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano, a run that saw Ronald Koeman lose his job.

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Al Sadd show frustration at Xavi to Barcelona rumors

Photo by Nikku/Xinhua via Getty Images

The club has released a statement in response to the speculation

Barcelona are expected to bring in Xavi to replace Ronald Koeman as manager of the Catalan giants but the club’s pursuit of their former midfielder has not gone done well with Al Sadd.

The Qatari side has released an official statement expressing their frustration at the continuing rumors about their current coach.

In response to what’s circulating recently, the #AlSadd management reaffirms that Xavi has a two-year contract with the club and is fully focused on the team’s upcoming matches, to maintain our lead at the top of the league and to defend the title.#AlwaysAlSadd pic.twitter.com/dJP4g0xZBx

— #76 Al Sadd SC | نادي السد (@AlsaddSC) October 29, 2021

The club’s media officer, Ahmed Al Ansari, has also taken to Twitter with a pretty pointed message.

“There is no official offer on the table from any party,” he wrote. “Any club that has a bit of professionalism is supposed to negotiate with the other side if it wants a player or coach who is under contract.”

Barcelona president Joan Laporta was pretty coy about Xavi when asked about him at a press conference on Friday. The club chief admitted he’s been in touch with Xavi but added “we also have other options.”

Diario Sport are reporting Xavi will stay at Al Sadd for the club’s next two games and then will fly to Barcelona at the end of next week. There’s unlikely to be an official announcement before Thursday, November 4 and it’s not clear if everything will be sorted in time for Xavi to take charge against Celta two days later.

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Barça vs Alavés: Preview

Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images

As they wait for a legend to come home, Barça look for a winning start to a new era

FC Barcelona (9th, 15pts) vs Deportivo Alavés (16th, 9pts)*

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*Points and positions at the time of writing on Friday

Competition/Round: 2021-22 La Liga, Matchday 12

Barcelona Outs & Doubts: Ansu Fati, Frenkie De Jong, Pedri, Ronald Araujo, Martin Braithwaite (out), Ousmane Dembélé, Sergi Roberto (doubt)

Alavés Outs & Doubts: Fernando Pacheco (doubt)

Date/Time: Saturday, October 30, 2021, 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Sunday)

Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Referee: Jorge Figueroa Vázquez

VAR: César Soto Grado

How to watch on TV: Not Available (USA), TSN 1 (Canada), LaLigaTV (UK), SuperSport (Nigeria), MTV (India), Movistar LaLiga (Spain), others

How to watch online: ESPN+ (USA), LaLigaTV (UK), others

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Following a depressing loss to Rayo Vallecano that resulted in the sacking of Ronald Koeman, Barcelona begin a new era this Saturday as they welcome struggling Alavés to the Greatest Stadium on Earth for a crucial La Liga match.

The worst-kept secret in football right now is that Xavi Hernández will be the next Barça manager, but until the club legend returns home it will be up to Barça B coach Sergi Barjuan to take charge of the first team for the next couple of matches. Barjuan has done a solid job with the B team so far this season, and he brings an idea of playing that is a lot closer to the Barça DNA than what we saw most of the time under Koeman.

Unfortunately for Barjuan he will be without a few key players for this one, with Ansu Fati and Frenkie De Jong expected to miss the match to be as close to full fitness as possible for the massive Champions League game away to Dynamo Kiev in midweek. Other players are also ruled out due to injury or dealing with a few knocks, so figuring out a team for Saturday will be a challenge for the interim boss.

But we’ll at least see a 4-3-3 formation and a desire to play attack-minded football against one of the worst teams in the league, which was somehow not the previous manager’s idea for 15 months. Enough about Koeman, however. A new era begins on Saturday before another new era begins after the international break, and the hope is for a good start with a good performance and a win — and maybe a few goals.

Let’s dance.

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POSSIBLE LINEUPS

Barcelona (4-3-3): Ter Stegen; Dest, Piqué, García, Alba; Gavi, Busquets, Coutinho; Demir, Agüero, Memphis

Alavés (4-5-1): Sivera; Navarro, Laguardia, Lejeune, Duarte; Pellistri, Pons, Ndiaye, Moya, Rioja; Joselu

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PREDICTION

This is more hope than prediction, to be quite honest: 3-0 Barça and an exciting performance.

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Sergi talks Ansu, Dembele and Riqui Puig ahead of Alaves

Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images

The latest from Barcelona’s interim coach

Barcelona’s interim coach Sergi Barjuan took part in the club’s pre-match press conference on Friday to talk about the game against Alaves.

Barjuan was joined by president Joan Laporta, who spoke about Ronald Koeman’s departure, but the coach was asked some questions about the team.

The new interim boss spoke about the early training sessions, offered some updates on Ansu and Ousmane Dembele and was also asked about Riqui Puig.

Here are the best bits:

Barjuan introduces himself

I would like to thank the president for his confidence and also thank Ronald Koeman, having worked side by side with him for the past months, we all know results dictate our future. It’s a difficult situation we work in to try and implement all the criteria that will bring us success tomorrow.

It’s easier to work with these players, there’s a lot of talent. What we did today I was happy with, the players understand the concept, I saw them very engaged. Right now all of us need to be together, united, and play this game as intensely as possible. That’s most important. The way we play won’t change that much, the players are the same, but we adjusted a few tactical aspects.

Barjuan on his approach

I think what I saw was to really return the joy and happiness of the players, to play with a smile on their face. They have already demonstrated what they are as players, they know how to compete, are used to the pressure. Tomorrow they know they need to try and win the game. The league is still up for grabs. We need to pick up three points, especially playing at home.

Barjuan on his objectives

My objective is to win, to have this team winning their games. I’m going to try and reverse the situation and I’m going to try to add my grain of salt to change the dynamics of this team and the situation. If we see things are going well, then good, but if we need to take different decisions then we will do that.

Barjuan on Alaves

It’s difficult. Not even 24 hours have passed, so it’s a stressful situation. We need to look at videos, my assistant coaches help me a lot. We try to look at how we are going to hurt our opponent in every game. We understand their system. They have interesting players, maybe not the fastest team. We are going to try to keep the ball, what we trained today, to try and hurt our opponents in many ways. So hopefully our patience and verticality will hep us win

Barjuan on how the team is

I think quite well. In the game we will try to dominate the ball. We have to take things step by step. A lot of things have happened in a short time. The style of play is non-negotiable and that’s evident. We have to have more presence and dominate the ball more. We are also going to look for defensive solutions and in the end make sure the ball goes in the back of the net.

Barjuan on Riqui Puig

In the end all the players that are available have a chance to play. I can’t base my decision on one training session. I have to see what the best options are for tomorrow’s game.

Barjuan on Dembele and Ansu Fati

Dembele is available so he could be called up. Ansu wasn’t in training so it’s impossible for tomorrow’s game. That’s the situation. If you train you have a chance to play but if you don’t you can’t.

Barjuan on calling up Abde and Alvaro Sanz

It’s true they may have chances. There are a lot of injury problems and we need to try and balance the team out, given the absences. These two players can perhaps give the team something and we’ll see.

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Kingsley Coman is one of Xavi’s preferred signings - report

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The Bayern Munich star is on the radar

According to most reporting and logic, Xavi will be named the next Barcelona manager in the coming days. His tenure will begin near the rock bottom of recent Barcelona history and he’ll be forced to adapt on the fly.

Part of his adaptation will be a 4-3-3 formation that needs a duo of classic attacking wingers. One of the wingers that Xavi would reportedly love to have up top is Kingsley Coman.

Currently, the Frenchman is at Bayern and his contract extension talks haven't produced anything sure as of yet. His current deal ends in 2023 and if Xavi can make an impressive run at Barca in the next six months, then maybe.

The report reckons Coman could be available for around €55 million next summer, if he doesn’t renew, and also notes that he’s only started one game so far this season for Bayern.

Thing is, this still probably won’t happen.

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Arsenal and Barcelona ready to do battle for Raheem Sterling - report

Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images

The Gunners are in contention for the Manchester City forward

Arsenal and Barcelona are set to compete over the signature of Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling, according to the latest rumors.

The English forward is not getting the minutes he has grown accustomed to this season under Pep Guardiola’s watch. Sterling seems to be open to a move, and Barcelona are said to be interested.

In addition, Barcelona’s rumored new manager, Xavi, is said to be a fan of the winger. And then there is the rumor that Sterling himself is open to the move to help lead the new version of Barcelona.

However, the transfer rumors point to a competitor for Sterling’s signature: Arsenal. The Gunners are looking to upgrade their squad and it is said that Mikel Arteta’s good relationship with Guardiola could help make the transfer happen.

One big complication is the transfer fee. It is being reported that Barça will only be able to rely on loan deal to bring Sterling to the Camp Nou. There’s also doubt whether Barcelona will really make a move for Sterling. or if the deal will never progress past some initial interest. If Ousmane Dembélé doesn’t renew his deal, that could be a factor for Bareclona making a move for the Englishman.

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Ronald Koeman’s sacking and Xavi’s appointment was inevitable

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Xavi was always Barcelona’s preferred option

Ronald Koeman is out, and it’s looking almost certain that Xavi will be in as FC Barcelona’s new manager. Koeman’s men improved on a torrid first half of the season with a great second half, but over the summer, things fell apart. Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann left, and while the Catalans made some smart free transfers, the talent level dropped. Still, Koeman could not keep up even with reduced expectations, and the team went through terrible results.

Xavi was the one the club really wanted, not Koeman. It was Xavi who turned down Josep Maria Bartomeu’s offer to takeover for Ernesto Valverde, allowing Quique Setién to be appointed. After Setién’s sacking, Xavi’s name was once again rumored, but ultimately the job was given to Koeman.

Joan Laporta never seemed to have a great relationship with the Dutchman, at first refusing to fully commit to keeping him as manager over the last summer. Laporta eventually relented, but it’s easy to imagine the reason for that was because the team didn’t have a lot of money and he didn’t want to pay Koeman a ton of money in severance pay.

That uneasy alliance was doomed to fail, even if Laporta tried to bring Koeman’s preferred players like Memphis Depay and Luuk de Jong. Just a few matches into the season, Koeman was already being threatened with the sack in the press.

In retrospect, it seems like a mistake to commit to Koeman at all. He was in good standing for a great second half of the season, and had a contract which entitled him to a lot of money if he were to be relieved of his duties. So it was completely understandable to continue with him. But with hindsight it seems like the wrong choice.

At the beginning of the month, I wrote that Koeman should be sacked without delay, and an interim coach should be appointed if the long-term choice was not available.

I still think it would’ve been wiser to sack him then (or even earlier, during the summer if possible) than now. It seems more or less that a month of time was lost. But at the very least, Laporta is making the move and not letting it go for longer.

Now, it’s up to Xavi. He’s Barcelona’s golden boy and his hiring was even more inevitable than Koeman’s firing. What the Catalans need now is patience. Results will not be great for a long time. How could they? The squad is not at the required level. It will take a long time to fix.

For that reason, the club should be patient. Koeman was not Laporta’s hire, but Xavi is. There is finally some coherence about the project, which has been in chaos for a long time.

Make no mistake, most of this is Bartomeu’s mess that Laporta merely inherited. It will take at least as long, if not longer, to undo the mess as it took to create it in the first place. That means many years.

Xavi is unproven as a manager outside of Asian football, so it may be a learning experience as well. The wise thing now is to give him a lot of time and a lot of patience.

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Laporta says Barcelona have ‘other options’ as well as Xavi

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The president also discussed Ronald Koeman’s exit

Barcelona president Joan Laporta offered an update on Xavi and the club’s seach for a new manager at a press conference on Friday.

Laporta appeared alongside new interim coach Sergi Barjuan and said that Xavi is not the only option to replace Ronald Koeman at the Camp Nou.

“I have always said one day [Xavi] will be Barca’s head coach but I don’t know when,” he said.

“We have great references about Xavi at Al Sadd. All our reports about Xavi are positive. We can talk a lot about Xavi, but I cannot give you more details. He is in all the papers, but we also have other options.”

Xavi appears to be the overwhelming favorite at the moment with the club legend reportedly keen to leave Al-Sadd now and head home.

It’s thought Barjuan will be in charge against Alaves and Dynamo Kiev but that Xavi could take over after those games if all goes well.

Laporta also spoke about Koeman’s departure and admitted that he probably left the Dutchman in the job for too long.

“Probably, yes,” he added. “Looking back it is easy to analyse, we felt Koeman deserved confidence to recover some injured players and it was a way to motivate the manager.

“I looked for some positives. Probably we had to make an earlier decision, I assume the responsibilities of this decision.”

Barjuan will take charge of Barca for the first time on Saturday when Alaves visit the Camp Nou with the Catalan giants really needing a win to breathe life into their season.

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Cazorla tells Barca fans what to expect from a Xavi reign

Photo by KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images

Some great insight from the midfielder

Santi Cazola commented on the Barcelona coaching search this week. Specifically, he was asked what Xavi could bring to Barca at this stage of their story.

One of the main questions around Xavi is his being prepared or not. Cazola, who plays for Xavi at Al-Sadd currently, assured Barca supporters he was ready for the job.

“Of course, Xavi is prepared to coach Barca,” he said. “Some people know the club well and know what he wants.

“He has a clear idea of football. He wants the ball and to be the protagonists. He is going to do it in any team in the world that he trains.

“It’s what Barca need, to return to their style.

“Xavi likes a lot of possession. He alternates between 4-3-3 and 3-4-3. Xavi always wants more and more possession.

Cazola | Source

Xavi is still the favorite to replace Ronald Koeman at Barcelona. The latest reports suggest he could sign a deal until 2024 and take charge for Barca’s game against Celta Vigo on November 6.

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Barjuan calls up two more youngsters to Barca training

Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images

A chance to impress for the young duo

Barcelona interim coach Sergi Barjuan called up Barca B youngsters Abde Ezzalzouli and Alvaro Sanz to first-team training on Friday morning.

Abde is a Moroccan left winger who only arrived at Barcelona from Hercules in the summer transfer window for €2 million. The 19-year-old has made six appearances so far for Barca B this season

Meanwhile, Alvaro Sanz is a 20-year-old midfielder who has been at the club since 2015 and has been an ever-present for Barca B in 2021-22.

It seems the duo have a good chance of being in the squad for Saturday’s match, and Barjuan spoke about both players at the pre-match press conference.

“It’s true they may have chances. There are a lot of injury problems and we need to try and balance the team out, given the absences,” he said.

“These two players can perhaps give the team something and we’ll see.”

The squad were put through their paces ahead of Saturday’s match with Alaves, although there was no Sergi Roberto who worked separately from the group. Ansu Fati was also missing which means he will also sit out the game against Alaves.

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How will Barcelona line up against Alaves?

Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images

Sergi Barjuan will take charge for the game

Barcelona begin life after Ronald Koeman on Saturday when Alaves visit the Camp Nou in La Liga.

B team coach Sergi Barjuan will take charge of the team and will know three points are needed after defeats to Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano.

Barjuan will be without some key players and it will be interesting to see how he lines his team up on Saturday.

Let’s look at who could feature.

Defense

Photo by DAX Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Barcelona haven’t kept a clean sheet in La Liga since the win over Levante but another one on Saturday would go a long way to helping snatch a crucial three points.

It’s difficult to see Barjuan making too many changes in defense. Ronald Araujo still isn’t ready to return which means Eric Garcia should continue with Gerard Pique.

Sergino Dest could drop back into his usual right-back spot with Jordi Alba featuring on the opposite flank.

Midfield

Photo by Xavier Bonilla/NurPhoto via Getty Images

There is where it really will get interesting, particularly with Pedri and Frenkie de Jong still sidelined with injury for the Catalan giants.

Nico Gonzalez may have just played his way into the starting line-up after impressing against Rayo, while Gavi will also be hoping to return to the starting XI.

And then there’s Riqui Puig who was spotted in yesterday’s training photos with a massive grin on his face after Koeman’s departure.

The midfielder will be hoping for his first start of the season and is surely a better bet than Philippe Coutinho who struggled yet again in midweek.

Attack

Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images

Barca’s attacking options are pretty limited once again with Ansu Fati unlikely to return for this one. It’s thought he only has a knock but Barca don’t want to take any risks.

Sergio Aguero may therefore have to start once again for Barcelona, while Memphis Depay should also get the nod. Yusuf Demir is also an option after coming on as a substitute against Rayo, although the youngster seemed unwilling to try and take players on.

Ousmane Dembele is being tipped to make the squad for this game after returning to full fitness so we may even get a glimpse of the Frenchman off the bench.

Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Dest, Pique, Eric, Alba; Busquets, Nico; Gavi, Riqui, Memphis; Aguero.

How do you think Barcelona should line up against Alaves? Let us know your teams, thoughts, and predictions in the comments below!

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FC Barcelona News: 29 October 2021

Photo by KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Sergi Barjuan, caretaker coach of FC Barcelona - FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona hereby announces that Sergi Barjuan, the current coach of Barça B, shall be taking provisional charge of the technical management of the senior squad. His interim position as first team head coach shall end as soon as the club has hired full-time head coach to replace the dismissed Ronald Koeman.

Sergi Barjuan runs first training session - FC Barcelona
The men's first team trained under the orders of Sergi Barjuan on pitch 3 of the Ciutat Esportiva this Thursday. Every available first-team player was there and he was joined by assistant coach, Felip Ortiz.

The challenges ahead - FC Barcelona
As we head into November, FC Barcelona already has its full Liga and Champions League schedule set out, the only pending issue being the exact time of the final game of the month against Villarreal.

Xavi Hernandez reaches a deal with Barcelona - SPORT
SPORT have learned from sources close to the deal that Xavi Hernandez and FC Barcelona have reached a deal for him to coach the team. After Ronald Koeman was sacked the club turned to their former midfielder, coaching Al Sadd in Qatar. He was their first option this time around.

Barcelona board also looking at the dressing room's 'sacred cows' amid crisis - SPORT
Barcelona’s crisis could take more victims than just Ronald Koeman. The club are also looking at some of the senior players. There is worry over the performances of Busquets, Pique and Jordi Alba, players who have been almost essential in Koeman’s schemes.

Barcelona will try and get rid of Luuk de Jong in the January window - SPORT
He was a last-minute signing that nobody understood but Ronald Koeman backed him. Luuk de Jong came in from Sevilla but his performances have left a lot to be desired and now he has to go.

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BB podcast: El Clasico recap and Barca’s future

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

What now for the Catalan giants?

Today on the Barca Blaugranes podcast, I’m joined by Managing Madrid’s Matt Wiltse to talk all things El Clasico. We look at the match from a tactical perspective and try to evaluate what was good about Barcelona. Then we chat about the managerial opening at Barca and what would be good for the club in a potential hire.

You can checkout the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more here.

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Sergi Roberto a doubt for Barcelona vs Alaves - report

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The midfielder has a knock

Sergi Roberto could miss Barcelona’s next La Liga game against Alaves at the Camp Nou on Saturday.

The 29-year-old has some muscular discomfort and is a “serious doubt” for the game after missing training on Thursday to work on his recovery, according to Diario AS.

Roberto was joined in the gym at the Ciutat Esportiva by Pedri and Ansu Fati who are also both expected to sit out Saturday’s game.

Pedri is not expected back until after the international break now, because of a thigh injury, while Ansu has some discomfort in his knee and Barca won’t take any risks.

The teenager’s injury is not thought to be serious but the club will not rush him back, although he’s expected to be fit to play for Spain over the international break if called up.

Sergi Barjuan will take charge of Barca on Saturday and will have his work cut out with the Catalans needing a win after consecutive defeats to Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano.

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Barcea players say goodbye to Ronald Koeman

Photo by Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

There have been lots of messages on social media

Barcelona players have taken to social media to say thank you and bid farewell to Ronald Koeman after his departure from the Camp Nou.

Captain Sergio Busquets was one of the first up with a message on Instagam stories that read, “Thank you for everything mister. Good luck for the future.”

Gerard Pique was quick to follow suit. He tweeted, “It has been a great pleasure to be at your service Ronald Koeman. I wish you all the luck in the world in the future. A big hug mister.”

Ha sido un placer enorme estar a tus órdenes @RonaldKoeman. Te deseo toda la suerte del mundo en el futuro. Un fuerte abrazo míster. pic.twitter.com/HGoFtztDNh

— Gerard Piqué (@3gerardpique) October 28, 2021

There were also some warm words from Frenkie de Jong.

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A post shared by Frenkie de Jong (@frenkiedejong)

Goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is pretty prolific when it comes to messages of support on social media and came up with the goods once again.

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A post shared by Marc ter Stegen (@mterstegen1)

Nico Gonzalez, who was handed his Barcelona debut by Koeman and started the defeat to Rayo, also paid tribute to the Dutchman with a social media post.

He wrote, “Thanks for everything, mister. It will always be in my memory that you were the coach who made my dream of debuting in the first team come true. Good luck in the future.”

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A post shared by Nico González Iglesias (@nicogonzalez_8)

Gavi also took time out to say goodbye. He wrote, Thank you very much Mister for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to fulfill my dream. I wish you the best.”

And so too did Pedri.

“I feel that things have not gone as we wanted, mister. I will always be grateful for everything you have done for me: for giving me his confidence from the first moment and for the opportunity to fulfill my dream at FC Barcelona. I wish you the best both personally and professionally

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A post shared by Pedri González (@pedrigonzalez)

Young left-back Alejandro Balde, who is another player who debuted under Koeman, was also thankful. He wrote on Instagram, “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to fulfill one of my dreams. My family and I will forever be grateful. Best of luck!”

There we also a few words from Ansu Fati. “Thanks for everything mister !!” he wrote on Instagram stories, “and I wish all your staff all the best for the future.”

Right-back turned right-winger Sergino Dest also had a message for Koeman.

Thank you for your faith and guidance. I will always appreciate it. Good luck in your next chapter mister. @RonaldKoeman pic.twitter.com/AZBk0eWBkm

— Sergiño Dest (@sergino_dest) October 28, 2021

Sergi Roberto and Oscar Mingueza also sent brief messages to Koeman but there’s been nothing from Riqui Puig yet though....

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