Following Real Madrid’s 3-1 victory over Villarreal, the pressure now shifts to Barcelona, who must win their away fixture against Sevilla to head into the international break as La Liga leaders.
Hansi Flick’s side cannot afford a slip-up, but injuries continue to pose a serious challenge for the Catalans.
Barcelona are dealing with a long list of absentees. Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Gavi remain long-term casualties, but they have now been joined by Fermin Lopez, Raphinha, and Joan Garcia – all of whom are expected to return only after the international break.
To make matters worse, Lamine Yamal has also been ruled out for two to three weeks with an injury.
The teenager’s absence will be a huge blow, given his recent performances and growing importance under Flick.
Favourable conditions for Barcelona
Sevilla may not be at their best this season, but they remain an opponent that demands full attention.
Interestingly, they have been more dangerous away from home than at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.
Notably, of the 10 points they have earned so far in La Liga, only one has come at home, following two defeats and a draw.
However, history favours Barcelona at this venue. The Catalans have not lost a league game at the Sanchez Pizjuan since October 2015, when they fell 1-2.
Since then, Barça have managed six wins and three draws in their last nine visits. Even more encouragingly, they have won their last three games there.
Revisiting last win
Last season, Barcelona produced a convincing 4-1 victory at Sevilla despite playing much of the second half with ten men after Fermin Lopez’s expulsion.
That performance remains a benchmark for the team as they aim to bounce back from recent struggles and reclaim the top spot before the break.
All eyes will be on how Flick sets up his depleted squad. Despite the absences, the mission is to secure three points, keep the pressure on Real Madrid, and enter the international break as league leaders once again.
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