Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, needs a victory against Athletic Bilbao on Saturday to truly celebrate the reopening of the remodelled Camp Nou, which has been shut for two and a half years.
The team, which won a domestic treble last season, is currently three points behind Real Madrid due to an inconsistent start to their La Liga title defence, characterised by shipping 15 goals in their opening months.
The return to their home stadium, after being in exile at the Olympic stadium, is expected to provide a needed boost.
Flick is focused on capitalising on the confidence gained from their previous 4-2 win against Celta Vigo, particularly the team’s improved control in the second half.

He is under pressure due to the team’s defensive frailties, which have resulted in them failing to keep a clean sheet since goalkeeper Joan Garcia’s injury.
Garcia is expected to return for this match, alongside the boosted presence of striker Robert Lewandowski, who recently scored a hat-trick against Celta.
However, Barcelona face midfield selection problems as Frenkie de Jong is suspended and Pedri is injured, leaving Marc Casado and Dani Olmo as likely replacements.
Meanwhile, young star Lamine Yamal is a doubt due to a groin issue.
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