Barcelona is preparing for their upcoming La Liga match against Alaves with several key player updates. Pedri is expected to return from injury, having not played since October due to a leg-muscle tear and hamstring issues. Coach Hansi Flick confirmed Pedri will see some minutes, likely as a substitute, to help him regain match fitness. Meanwhile, Ronald Araujo will miss the game due to a stomach virus, and Frenkie de Jong has been unexpectedly left out of the squad for personal reasons, with no injury reported. De Jong's absence was a surprise, as he was expected to start, but he will be replaced by Marc Bernal. Flick expressed optimism about returning players Raphinha and Marcus Rashford, who are gradually recovering from injuries. The team aims to bounce back from a recent 3-0 Champions League defeat to Chelsea and move to the top of La Liga standings, with Real Madrid playing later.