Xavi: We’re in a right state MALLORCA v BARCELONA

Today, Kick-off 8pm

BARCELONA boss Xavi is refusing to use Barcelona’s Covid woes as an excuse ahead of tonight’s clash with Mallorca.

Xavi is without several members of his squad due to the virus, injury and suspension.

Dani Alves, Clement Lenglet, Jordi Alba and Alejandro Balde were the first to test positive. They have since been joined by the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Samuel Umtiti and Gavi, all of whom will miss the Mallorca fixture at the very least.

Xavi will be hoping that no more players test positive as the virus, injuries and suspensions put a severe squeeze on manpower.

Barcelona B players will be called up but Xavi is not expected to call upon the services of new £55million signing Ferran Torres from Manchester City. The forward has already trained with his new club, but has not played since breaking his foot on international duty back in October.

Xavi confirmed: “We are in a dire situation with 18 missing players in total.

“If we had common sense this game would not be played and this game should be suspended.

“But the rules are what they are – it’s very harsh.

“We are going to have to compete and see how this goes as Mallorca also have troubles. It’s not an excuse but a reality.

“We have to be prepared for this game, compete and put any complications behind us. We will be focused on our jobs and will look to win – as we are in a dire need of them.”

Xavi’s team are not in the title race but are only two points behind fourth-placed Rayo Vallecano ahead of the January transfer window with Torres’ arrival already confirmed.

Despite Barca’s Covid issues heading into this contest, the Catalan outfit are unbeaten against Mallorca in the league since May 2009.

Luis Garcia’s side have drawn each of their last four home league games while they are unbeaten on home soil since the end of September.

Mallorca have lost each of their last seven La Liga games against Barcelona, though.