Deportivo Alaves have confirmed their starting lineup for the northern derby against CA Osasuna this Sunday at Mendizorroza. Quique Sánchez Flores is forced into changes due to injury absences, while the team looks to maintain their strong start to the season.
Alaves come into this match in an enviable position, second in the LALIGA EA Sports table with 10 points from three wins and one draw. Their record of 10 goals scored and only 3 conceded reflects solid play at both ends of the pitch. They sit just two points behind leaders Barcelona, adding extra incentive to every fixture.
Who comes in for Alaves's absentees?
The most significant absence is Toni Martínez, who is suffering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee that will keep him out for several months. In midfield, Mikel Rodríguez also misses the match. To cover the gap in attack, Carles Aleñá returns to the starting eleven. Mariano Díaz, after showing strong early form, earns his first start of the season. These moves show the depth of the Alaves 2026 squad, which the manager must manage carefully.
How is Osasuna approaching the derby?
The visiting team, managed by Luis Miguel Ramis, also arrives with injury problems. In defense, they cannot count on Valentin Rosier or Jorge Herrando, while in midfield the absence of Aimar Oroz is a significant blow. Raúl García de Haro will take his place in attack, partnering with Ante Budimir. In the back line, Enzo Boyomo returns to the starting eleven to partner Alejandro Catena, and Íñigo Arguibide keeps his place as right-back. The central midfield pairing will be Iker Muñoz and Jon Moncayola, with Lucas Torró on the bench. Rubén García and Moi Gómez will provide width from the wings.
What is the context for this match?
This fixture is more than a league game; it's a historic northern Spain derby. An Osasuna spokesperson recently stated, "Somos el único club de verdad que queda en España" (We are the only real club left in Spain), a declaration that undoubtedly adds spice to the pre-match atmosphere. For Alaves, this match is a chance to prove their place in the standings is deserved and to cement themselves among the top sides. The Vitoria-based team has shown a positive run of form (WWDW) they want to extend against their rival.
The match is an important test before the team travels to face Racing Santander on the 12th of September. The Cantabrian side currently sits in 12th place, making it another challenge in the tight LALIGA EA Sports schedule. Fans can track the status of all Deportivo Alaves injuries 2026 in our dedicated section. Kick-off at Mendizorroza is scheduled for Sunday, closing matchday four of the competition.
