Barcelona Seeks Revival Against Unbeaten Celta Vigo on Sunday Night

VIGO, Spain — FC Barcelona will aim to end a three-game winless streak away from home when they face Celta Vigo at Estadio de Balaídos on Sunday night.

Barcelona, under manager Hansi Flick, is looking to bounce back after a 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League midweek. The Catalan side had to come from behind three times to salvage a point, raising questions about their defensive tactics. Despite criticism, Flick remains committed to his aggressive style of play.

“We want to play to our DNA; we don’t want a low block,” Flick stated. “At the moment, in some moments, we miss intensity. This is not about the philosophy.”

Eric García is doubtful for the match after suffering a suspected broken nose in the Champions League game. With injuries plaguing the squad, only Pau Cubarsí and Ronald Araújo are expected to feature as central defenders against Celta Vigo.

Barcelona has struggled on the road, failing to win any of their last three away matches. They have only claimed two victories in their last ten visits to Celta in La Liga. A win in Vigo is crucial for the reigning champions as they look to secure their position near the top of the league standings.

Celta, managed by Claudio Giráldez, enters the match in strong form, having won five consecutive matches across all competitions. They have not lost since late September, making them a formidable opponent for Barcelona.

Celta Vigo’s anticipated lineup includes goalkeeper Iván Villar, along with defenders Marcos Alonso and Óscar Mingueza, both former Barcelona players. The hosts are expected to rely on top scorer Borja Iglesias to lead their attack.

Barcelona’s lineup will likely see Wojciech Szczęsny in goal, supported by Koundé, Araújo, Cubarsí, and Alejandro Balde in defense. The midfield features Frenkie de Jong and Dani Olmo, while Lamine Yamal and Fermín López provide creative support. Robert Lewandowski, returning from injury, may start upfront as the team seeks to finish the match with a positive result.

“We can’t afford to drop points,” de Jong added. “It’s vital for us to get back to winning ways before the international break.”

The match is set to kick off at 9 p.m. local time.