Barcelona squad raises Livakovic questions as Balde included for Rayo Vallecano

Hansi Flick has named his Barcelona squad for the visit of Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Thursday, with Gavi still absent and Dominik Livakovic left out despite joining the club last week.

The match, which is part of the third round of the Spanish top flight, will be played at Camp Nou. Livakovic’s omission means the Croatia goalkeeper has yet to be registered by Barcelona, leaving his immediate future unresolved.

The experienced goalkeeper could remain at the club or leave on loan, with neither option settled at this stage. His absence from Flick’s selection comes after his recent arrival, but Barcelona have not yet completed his registration.

Gavi has also been left out as a precaution while he continues his recovery from the serious knee injury suffered against Elche in the opening round of La Liga. Barcelona’s coaching staff do not want to risk bringing him back before he has regained full fitness.

The midfielder is expected to have a chance of returning to the squad for next week’s match against Valencia, although he remains unavailable for the meeting with Rayo Vallecano.

Frenkie de Jong and Roony Bardghji are also missing because of injury. Their absences leave Barcelona without several midfield options as Flick selects from the players considered physically ready to play.

One of the more notable inclusions is Alejandro Balde. The defender remains in the squad despite continued uncertainty over his future at Barcelona, with speculation that he could leave before the transfer window closes.

Barcelona will be looking to maintain their early momentum in La Liga against Rayo Vallecano. Flick’s side will do so with significant absences in midfield and in goal, while the manager continues to rely on those available and fully fit.

Barcelona squad to face Rayo Vallecano

Goalkeepers: Joan Garcia, Wojciech Szczesny, Eder Aller.

Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi, Andreas Christensen, Alejandro Balde, Gerard Martin, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Xavi Espart.

Midfielders: Rodri, Fermin Lopez, Pedri, Dani Olmo, Bernal, Farinas.

Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Adeyemi, Gordon, Hamza.