Chelsea and Conte could struggle in the Champions League
Turkey international Arda is suffering from a groin problem and was forced to sit out Friday’s training session, while Pique is reported to have trained away from the team due to a fitness concern.
The news is a worry for Luis Enrique’s side, with Rafinha out with a broken nose and Javier Mascherano sidelined with a hamstring problem.
Samuel Umtiti and Jeremy Mathieu are the only recognised centre-backs in the 18-man squad, which includes 19-year-old midfielder Carles Alena.
Captain Iniesta is included and could make his first league appearance since the 1-1 draw with Villarreal on January 8.
“Arda Turan missed Friday’s training session at the Ciutat Esportiva with a groin problem and was not included in the list,” Barca said in a statement.
“Rafinha is still recovering from a broken nose so he misses out, as does Javier Mascherano, who picked up a hamstring injury on Tuesday in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid.
“Goalkeeper Jordi Masip and defender Gerard Pique have also been omitted from the squad which means a place for B team midfielder Carles Alena, who also trained with the first team on Friday ahead of the league clash with fellow Copa del Rey finalists Alaves.”
