Barcelona coach Xavi called Daniel Alves directly to explain the decision to leave him out of their Europa League squad.

Sport says Alves was the player Xavi left off the list for the Europa League. The Brazilian understands the decision and is still excited about helping the team compete in La Liga.

He learned from the coach first hand, with Xavi phoning him to explain what would happen with one of the four new signings out, with UEFA allowing only three registrations.

Xavi decided to bring all the forwards, with Ansu Fati injured and Ousmane Dembele's future unknown.

Alves has accepted Xavi's decision and remains committed to the remainder of the season.