Official, Barça's new signing will be available against Valencia: Deco has given the green light

This upcoming Sunday, Barça will play their first home match in the current league championship after three consecutive away games. Among Barcelona fans, there was a strong desire to play the match in the completely renovated new Spotify Camp Nou, but it still won't be possible. The delay in the construction work is evident, and the club still hasn't received the necessary documentation to open the stadium with safety guarantees.

Thus, Barça-Valencia will be played at Johan Cruyff Stadium, which has a capacity for 6,000 people. The first option was Montjuïc, but the field wouldn't be in suitable condition for an official match, so Johan Cruyff was chosen. La Liga has given the green light for the match to be played, pending the installation of VAR cameras.

In the sports section, Barça faces the match against Valencia with three important absences. In addition to the already known absences of left-back Alejandro Balde and midfielder Gavi, who is still dealing with discomfort in his operated knee, De Jong has now joined them. The club's statement notes a "minor" injury in his right leg's obturator muscle.

Barça face the first home match with new developments

The absence at left-back will be covered by Gerard Martín, who managed to register in La Liga just before the international break. He got some minutes in Vallecas and will start against the Valencia team this upcoming Sunday. In midfield, Pedri will definitely start, although he comes from playing both matches with Spain and fatigue may take its toll on him.

With the announced absence of Frenkie de Jong, the pivot expected to partner with Pedri is Marc Casadó. Pedri has praised on several occasions the great work that the La Masia product does in the Barça midfield, especially in ball recovery. So much so that Pedri gave him the nickname "pitbull" because he always goes after the ball like a true beast.

In the attacking midfield, Fermín and Dani Olmo will compete for the starting spot; both have played less than Pedri with Spain. In the forward line, we'll see if Flick gives Raphinha a rest after his international trip and ends up bringing in Rashford. What is certain is that Thiago Alcántara will be on the bench, as he already spent a few months with the German coach last season.

Thiago Alcántara will be present: Deco has given the green light

To the surprise of many, in recent hours it has been confirmed that Thiago Alcántara is returning to Barça. The Spanish-Brazilian was already part of Hansi Flick's team last season, but he had to leave halfway through the season for tax reasons. Now, with no strings attached, Thiago has returned to Flick's staff and, barring any surprises, will be part of the team next weekend.

Thiago Alcántara will sit next to Flick in the match against Valencia to give his opinion and help in every possible way. His experience, especially with the younger players, is considered vital for the proper functioning of the locker room. Therefore, next weekend, after receiving Deco's approval, it is most likely that he will be on the bench at Johan Cruyff.