La Liga leaders Barcelona host sixth-placed Celta Vigo on Wednesday evening, with coach Hansi Flick urging his players to perform at their best. The match comes days after Barcelona's elimination from the Champions League by Atletico Madrid. Both teams reported injuries ahead of the clash at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick voiced caution about Celta Vigo, recalling a dramatic 98th-minute penalty win against them last season after trailing 3-1. 'Every match is tough,' Flick said. 'We have to play at our best.' He noted the squad's strong atmosphere following their Champions League exit, with La Liga as their sole remaining competition. Barcelona lead the table by nine points over Real Madrid with seven matches left. Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen is out with a knee injury, and Raphinha has a hamstring problem. Fermin Lopez is a doubt after needing stitches, while Frenkie de Jong could start following his recovery. Celta Vigo coach Claudio Giraldez admitted his team needs to improve after losing four of their last five matches, including a 3-0 home defeat to bottom side Oviedo. Defender Carl Starfelt misses a sixth game due to back issues, with several other players sidelined. Predicted lineups feature Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford for Barcelona, and Williot Swedberg for Celta Vigo. Barcelona are unbeaten in their last five meetings with Celta, winning the previous four at home. The match kicks off at 20:30 BST, available on Premier Sports 1 in the UK.
