Barcelona team news: Neymar out of the squad, star player set to replace him
Barcelona will be without their Champions League hero Neymar for today’s clash with Deportivo in the Spanish League.
The Brazil international has been left out of Luis Enrique’s match-day squad after failing a late fitness test.
Neymar is carrying a leg injury which he sustained during the mid-week clash.
The former Santos forward played the staring role in Barcelona’s incredible come-back victory over Paris Saint Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Barcelona also released a statement on their official website saying that the 25-year-old will not be involved in today’s encounter with Deportivo.
“Neymar Jr and Rafinha are unavailable for Sunday’s game against Deportivo de la Coruña,” the statement read.
“Barça’s number ‘11’ is suffering from pain in his left leg’s abductor, whilst Rafinha has gastroenteritis.
“Neither of them will travel to Riazor as they were both unable to train on Saturday ahead of the La Liga fixture.
“The two Brazilians join the injured duo, Aleix Vidal and Mathieu.
“Meanwhile, Jordi Masip has been left out by the manager and Barça B’s Aleñá comes in.
“Therefore, the final match day squad for the trip to Galicia contains the following players: Ter Stegen, Cillessen, Piqué, Rakitic, Sergio, Denis, Arda, A. Iniesta, Suárez, Messi, Mascherano, Paco Alcácer, Jordi Alba, Digne, Sergi Roberto, André Gomes, Umtiti and Aleñá (28).”
Arda Turan will however be available for today’s game. The 30-year-old may be called upon to replace Neymar.
The Turkey international played the last 30 minutes against PSG in the Champions League after returning from an adductor injury.
Barcelona are currently at the top of the Spanish league, one point ahead of their biter rivals Real Madrid.
