Barcelona's title celebrations may still be echoing through the Camp Nou, but their first match as newly crowned champions was a sobering reality check. Just days after clinching the La Liga trophy with a historic win over Real Madrid, Hansi Flick's side fell to a determined Deportivo Alaves 1-0, reminding everyone that even champions can have off nights.

The hosts came out with the intensity of a team fighting for survival, while Barcelona appeared to still be nursing their championship hangover. Alaves' relentless pressure paid off late in the first half, leaving Flick scrambling to find answers from his bench. Despite throwing everything forward, the Catalans couldn't find an equalizer, walking away empty-handed from a match that exposed their lack of sharpness.

Player Ratings: Who Stepped Up and Who Struggled

Wojciech Szczesny – 4.5/10
Handed a rare start to rest Joan Garcia's Zamora Trophy chances, the veteran looked off the pace. He made two routine saves in the first half but could have done better on the decisive goal. A big stop after the break was a bright spot, but overall, a rusty performance.

Alejandro Balde – 6/10
With Joao Cancelo rested, Balde got the nod at left-back and showed neat distribution without delivering the defensive solidity or attacking end product Flick would have hoped for. A solid but unspectacular return.

Hector Cortes – 7.5/10
The surprise starter of the night, Cortes made his first-team debut look effortless. Composed under pressure, sharp in his decision-making, and impressively accurate with his passing, he didn't play like a rookie. A bright spot in an otherwise dull outing.

Pau Cubarsi – 7/10
One of the few regulars retained to anchor the defense, Cubarsi led by example. His distribution from the back was once again his standout quality, keeping Barcelona ticking despite the chaos around him.

For Barcelona fans, this match was a reminder that even champions need to refocus. For the players, it's back to the drawing board—and for the rest of us, it's a chance to gear up for the next challenge in style.