After concluding the League Phase of the UEFA Champions League with a second-place finish, FC Barcelona now shift their focus back to La Liga as they prepare to face Deportivo Alaves at Estadi Olimpic de Montjuic today.

Unlike their European campaign, Hansi Flick's side has been struggling in the league.

However, this matchday presents them with an unexpected opportunity to close the gap on league leaders Real Madrid.

Los Blancos suffered a shocking defeat against Espanyol last night, dropping three crucial points.

With a victory over Alaves, Barcelona can cut the deficit to just four points.

Preparations for the fixture are already underway, and Barcelona have officially announced their squad for the game.

There are no major surprises in the selection, apart from the expected return of Inigo Martinez.

The Spanish defender has made a quicker-than-anticipated recovery from his muscular injury, providing a timely boost to Flick's defensive options.

However, one notable absentee is Dani Olmo, who was initially expected to return for this fixture.

Reports suggest that Hansi Flick is taking a cautious approach with the Spaniard to ensure he fully recovers ahead of the crucial final stretch of the season.

The full squad announced by Barcelona for this game is as follows: Goalkeepers: 1: Inaki Pena Sotorres 2: Wojciech Szczesny 3: Diego Kochen Defenders: 1: Ronald Araujo 2: Pau Cubarsi 3: Jules Kounde 4: Alejandro Balde 5: Inigo Martinez 6: Eric Garcia 7: Gerard Martin 8: Hector Fort Midfielders: 1: Pedri 2: Gavi 3: Marc Casado 4: Fermin Lopez 5: Frenkie de Jong 6: Pablo Torre Forwards: 1: Robert Lewandowski 2: Lamine Yamal 3: Raphinha 4: Ferran Torres 5: Pau Victor 6: Ansu Fati Injured: 1: Marc-Andre ter Stegen 2: Marc Bernal 3: Andreas Christensen 4: Dani Olmo FC Barcelona will be eager to capitalize on Real Madrid's setback and keep their title hopes alive with a strong performance against Alaves.

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