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6 months ago
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Barcelona have dropped their final squad list ahead of an important clash against Atletico Madrid this evening.
This will be the last game before Barcelona sign off for the international break. In the context of the title race, this is also a must-win game for the Catalans.
However, it appears Barça will have to make do without the services of a key player in Joao Cancelo, who has been left out of the squad vs Atletico Madrid.
Why is Cancelo not a part of the squad?
According to Diario SPORT, the official reason coming from Barcelona regarding the absence of Cancelo is ‘physical discomfort’.
It appears the Portuguese international has picked up a slight knock heading into this crucial tie, which would force Xavi Hernandez to make some key changes in the starting eleven.
Cancelo’s absence will be a huge blow for Xavi, especially in the context of the team’s injury crisis in the left-back area.
Barcelona will have to make do without Cancelo this evening (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Alejandro Balde has been struggling with injury, which forced Xavi to continue with Cancelo in the left-back position. But with both sidelined against Atletico, Xavi may have to experiment a little.
Who will replace Cancelo?
Curiously, Barcelona announced the medical discharge of Marcos Alonso at the same time they announced the exclusion of Cancelo from the first team.
It appears the former Chelsea star will be a part of the squad against Atletico Madrid. But given the fact that the defender has struggled with injuries and lack of game-time this season, Xavi might want to look at other options.
Sergi Roberto looks best placed to replace Cancelo at left-back. Hector Fort is another option for coach Xavi, though the youngster’s lack of experience could prove to be a risk against a well-drilled Atletico frontline.
