In a preview published on the club’s official website, Barcelona noted that Alavés collected 10 points from their opening four fixtures and were second in the table before their form deteriorated. They have since taken only two points from the following six matches, a run that makes them the division’s lowest point-scorers over that period.
The statistic is accurate within that six-game window, but it does not describe Alavés’ overall season. Quique Sánchez Flores’ side begin the weekend in seventh place with 12 points from 10 matches, having made a strong start before their winless run.
Barcelona’s own recent results provide a contrasting context. Hansi Flick’s side have lost consecutive matches against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, ending their unbeaten run in the process. They remain top of the table, but their lead has narrowed, with Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid close behind.
The Catalans’ preview also identified a tactical threat from Alavés, pointing to their league-leading number of crosses. The visitors have delivered 206 balls into the penalty area, including corners, making their wide service an area Barcelona’s defence will need to manage.
Flick and Sánchez Flores will also share a curious personal detail when they meet in the technical areas: both were born in December 1965, although their birthdays are 19 days apart.
The fixture carries significance for Barcelona beyond the need to respond to two defeats. Real Madrid moved closer with their Clásico victory, while Atlético remain within reach of the leaders. A further setback could therefore have a major impact on the title race.
Barcelona’s attacking output remains formidable, with the club citing 51 goals in 13 matches across competitions. Their defensive record, however, has been less convincing, with 17 goals conceded, six of them in the Champions League. The challenge against Alavés will be to restore control without losing the attacking fluency that has driven their strong start.