With no La Liga action midweek, attention turns to matchday 11 this weekend, when Barcelona host Alavés and Athletic Club welcome Real Sociedad to San Mamés for the Basque derby.
Lamine Yamal: eyes on the future
Lamine Yamal responded on Instagram to finishing third in the Ballon d’Or, which went to Harry Kane, writing that “good things take time.” At the same ceremony he collected the Kopa Trophy for the best young player. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente backed him to win many Ballons d’Or in the years ahead.
Barcelona’s perfect league start ended with last weekend’s Clásico defeat to Real Madrid, and Hansi Flick faces a defensive reshuffle against Alavés, with Eric García, Andreas Christensen and Xavi Espart injured. Jules Koundé could return. Barcelona were also handed a fine in a case involving Julián Álvarez, reports said, though details were not disclosed.
Nico Williams back in the groove
Nico Williams, who missed part of October with a left thigh injury, started and played about 67 minutes in Athletic’s 4-0 win over Getafe on Sunday. He did not score or assist; Álex Berenguer was the star with a free-kick goal and three assists, while Iñaki Williams, Aitor Paredes and Yuri Berchiche also scored.
Athletic now host Real Sociedad at San Mamés in the Basque derby, with Nico expected to be a key outlet on the left.
This weekend
- Barcelona vs Alavés, Spotify Camp Nou
- Athletic Club vs Real Sociedad, San Mamés
Check official listings for confirmed kick-off times.
Leave a Reply