FC Barcelona are set to face Celta Vigo in La Liga later today. Having secured a win against Elche last weekend, Hansi Flick’s men will want to build on it and push for another three points against Vigo.
In many ways, it is even more important that Barcelona play a recognisable brand of football on the way to three points. That said, a trip to Balaídos can prove a nightmare and Vigo have been in good form.
Meanwhile, according to [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20251109/1002565859/preocupa-barca-autopista-banda-izquierda.html), the absence of injured star Raphinha is disrupting the left-flank dynamic at Barcelona. The Brazilian needs to return as soon as possible for Flick to restore the team both offensively and defensively.
The report highlights how Marcus Rashford is nowhere near as intense as Raphinha off the ball, and this in turn is affecting the press. It leaves Alejandro Balde exposed on the flank and unable to carry out his defensive duties properly.
Balde pushes forward to try to intercept at source. If he is not supported by the left winger, it becomes very easy for the opposition to play around the press. In the match against Club Brugge, Carlos Forbs took advantage of this.
Flick will want to see an improvement in this regard against Vigo. The German is likely to have the same players on the left flank with Raphinha still out, and let us hope Rashford can step up and be more alert defensively to help Balde.