FC Barcelona travel to Asturias on Thursday night to face Real Oviedo in La Liga Matchday 6. The clash at the Carlos Tartiere Stadium kicks off at 9:30 PM CEST and marks the first meeting between the two sides in over 24 years.
Flick Names Strong Squad for Oviedo Trip
Head coach Hansi Flick has called up a 22-man squad as Barcelona look to continue their strong league campaign. The list includes:
Araujo, Cubarsí, Ferran, Pedri, Lewandowski, Raphinha, Joan Garcia, Rashford, Christensen, Marc Casadó, Gerard Martín, Olmo, De Jong, Bernal, Kounde, Eric, Szczesny, Jofre, Roony, Dro, A. Fernández, and Eder Aller.
Despite a number of injury setbacks in recent weeks, Barça’s squad still boasts plenty of depth and firepower, led by Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and Raphinha.
Oviedo Relish Historic Season
For Real Oviedo, this fixture is more than just another game. Back in La Liga for the first time in 24 years, the Asturian side is savoring every moment of their top-flight return.
They already faced Real Madrid earlier in the season and will now welcome Barcelona in what promises to be another special night at the Carlos Tartiere.
Oviedo currently sit 17th in the table, with one win from their opening five matches, but coach Veljko Paunovic insists his side are capable of competing with Spain’s elite.
Paunovic Praises Yamal Despite His Absence
Speaking ahead of the match, Paunovic admitted his disappointment at not being able to see Lamine Yamal in action due to injury.
“I regret it because I admire these players, especially someone like Lamine Yamal, who I believe is destined to mark an era,” Paunovic said.
Yamal, who recently finished second in the Ballon d’Or voting behind Ousmane Dembélé, has been sidelined but could return in time for Barça’s upcoming clash with Real Sociedad.
Oviedo’s Game Plan: “Organised, Focused, Courageous”
Asked about his approach against Barcelona, Paunovic underlined the need for discipline and bravery.
“To compete with a Champions League team, we must appear organised, focused, and courageous,” he said.
The Oviedo boss also highlighted his side’s fighting spirit, pointing to their late surge against Elche as evidence of their potential.
“The final stretch against Elche was a good example of what this team can do. We lacked conviction at the start, but we created more chances away from home than ever. These lessons must guide us moving forward.”
A Night of Contrasts
While Barcelona arrive as heavy favorites, the atmosphere at the Carlos Tartiere promises to be electric as Oviedo’s supporters relish their first home clash with Barça in over two decades.
For Flick’s side, the mission is clear—secure three points and maintain momentum in their pursuit of the La Liga crown. For Oviedo, the challenge is about pride, resilience, and proving they belong back at the top.
