Paco Alcacer's Barcelona future on the line in the Copa del Rey

Paco Alcacer's future is in the air. The Barcelona striker's lack of minutes -- once again left out of the squad for Saturday's game at Atletico Madrid -- and his lack of form when on the pitch has left him in a negative situation. In theory Luis Suarez's backup, he has not even been able make his way into the team when the Uruguayan is missing as coach Ernesto Valverde has opted to use Lionel Messi as a false nine. 

SPORT have learned that is seems as if Alcacer will have to turn things around in the Copa del Rey. The opposition will be Murica and it will be a game for the former Valencia forward to re-discover his form. He has not played since Aug. 26, when he was involved at Alaves. His presence since then has been non-existent. 

Rumours of a possible departure are more and more present for a player who's had to play out of position, on the left wing, when he has been selected. The man from Torrent could leave Camp Nou in January, or, if not, then next summer. We will see if he's able to turn things around and prove himself to Valverde.