Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde defended his decision to rotate the team against Celta Vigo, where the La Liga leaders saw their title charge held up by a 2-2 draw and had Sergi Roberto sent off.

BARCELONA, Nov 3: Barcelona plays Sevilla at the Camp Nou on Saturday, in a bid to extend their unbeaten run in all competitions, which will take them 11 points above their fierce rivals Real Madrid, who faces Las Palmas on Sunday. Second placed Valencia, who is four points behind Barcelona takes on Leganes in an early kick-off on Saturday as well.

Lawmakers in Catalonia’s parliament declared independence from Spain last week following a disputed referendum that triggered a constitutional crisis. Some Barcelona fans have been vocal in their support for independence during matches.

MADRID, Jan 7: Francisco "Isco" Alarcon began his year by scoring a brace in the 5-0 demolition of Granada on Saturday in La Liga as Real Madrid tied Barcelona's Spanish record of 39 games unbeaten in all competitions.

MADRID, Oct 23: Valencia coach Cesare Prandelli was not surprised that the controversial calls went Barcelona's way.

BARCELONA, Aug 20: Barcelona defender Javier Mascherano will miss the club's Spanish league opener after he injured his leg on Wednesday.