FC Barcelona have managed to register a new player for Sunday’s away clash against Villarreal.
With Real Madrid beating Celta Vigo 1-0 on Friday thanks to a late Jude Bellingham winner, Los Blancos made it three wins from three to boast a maximum nine points thus far.
It is early days, but with Barca having played after their bitter rivals for the past couple of weekends they are effectively in a game of catch up.
The Catalans are currently defending their La Liga crown five points behind Carlo Ancelotti’s men as things stand, with a loss or draw at the Estadio de la Ceramica detrimental to the cause.
Xavi Hernandez knows that his troops will be up against it at 17.30 local time in unforgiving, blistering heat and there are also the injuries that have left his squad ravaged.
Ronald Araujo and Pedri are both missing in central defense and midfield respectively, and there are doubts that Alejandro Balde can make the cut thanks to ankle discomfort reported on by SPORT.
The Catalan daily newspaper added that the development at left back would push Barca to prioritize the registration of Marcos Alonso, and this have proven true.
As can be seen on the official La Liga website, the ex-Chelsea man is now good to go and officially start what will be his second season in Blaugrana after joining from the west London club on a free transfer in 2022.
Furthermore, after doubts over his future, the Spain international has reportedly been told by the boss that he is counting on him for the recently-commenced season.
With club legend Jordi Alba having fled to reunite with Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets at Inter Miami in the MLS, there is a lack of cover at left back.
If first choice Balde gets injured, as seen in brutal fashion at the end of last term, Barca will be short-staffed in a crucial area of the pitch.
Alonso renewed his contract until June 2024 in January, with his performances as back up to Balde key to determining whether or not an extra, additional year will be triggered next summer.
