Report: The experimental backline Flick tested in training ahead of Barcelona vs Alaves amid injury crisis

Report: The experimental backline Flick tested in training ahead of Barcelona vs Alaves amid injury crisis As Barcelona prepare to take on Deportivo Alaves in La Liga tomorrow at the Spotify Camp Nou, manager Hansi Flick has tested out a highly unconventional defensive line in training to deal with the injury-enforced absences. Indeed, as per Mundo Deportivo , the Barcelona manager trialled an experimental backline that featured midfielder Frenkie de Jong as Pau Cubarsi’s centre-back partner. Meanwhile, Brian Farinas slotted in at right-back whereas Joao Cancelo played as the left-back, which means that Alejandro Balde could be set to start on the bench again. Injuries restrict Hansi Flick’s options against Alaves Barcelona head into tomorrow’s game against Quique Sanchez Flores’ side without as many as four frontline defenders. Indeed, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, and Xavi Espart all remain unavailable for the La Liga champions due to various injury problems. Set to play at centre-back? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) It has left Flick thinly stretched, especially in the centre-back department, where even Gerard Martin has been dealing with a slight discomfort. As such, the manager tried out De Jong in a centre-back role – something that he has been experimenting with in training for some time now and even hinted at during his press conference . The Dutchman made his first appearance of the season against Real Madrid last weekend, but could be in line for a start tomorrow as Cubarsi’s partner in central defence. Moreover, with no Kounde, Garcia, and Espart, Barcelona are short on right-back options, leading to Farinas being tried in the position. Brian Farinas to finally make his debut? (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images) The 20-year-old La Masia graduate played as a right-back during one of the pre-season matches. He has yet to make his official debut for the Catalans this term, which could change tomorrow . Karim Adeyemi and Raphinha included in attacking setup As for the rest of the starting lineup that Flick tested in today’s training session, key midfielders Pedri and Rodri featured as the double pivot as usual. Fermin Lopez operated as the third midfielder, occupying the No. 10 position, while club captain Raphinha continued in the centre-forward role. Another interesting switch saw Karim Adeyemi slot in on the left flank instead of Anthony Gordon, indicating that the German attacker might be in line for a start. Lamine Yamal played in his natural position on the right.