How Barcelona plans to cope with the 34-degree heat at Mestalla

Barcelona is preparing for a 34-degree afternoon at Mestalla with a hydration plan that begins the day before its match against Valencia.

The team is visiting a struggling Valencia side on Sunday, while Barcelona leads the standings and could move three points clear of Real Madrid, which lost to Real Betis on Friday. Valencia has collected one point and scored once in its first three matches, including a painful defeat at Deportivo in Riazor in which it scored two own goals.

Barcelona’s players lost fluids and electrolytes through sweating during Saturday’s training session. The club plans to restore them with options including fresh watermelon juice, lemon drinks and coconut water. It will also slightly increase the salt in meals on the eve of the match and on match day, helping the body retain fluids.

The coaching staff and nutritionists identify the heat, the journey and the night before the game as particularly sensitive periods. Players cannot drink during sleep, so the club will pay special attention to hydration before bedtime and from early in the morning. Breakfast will also be designed to support hydration and energy levels.

During the match, Barcelona will strengthen its hydration protocols during cooling breaks. Players will have access to cooling scarves or gel towels to help lower body temperature and recover in the demanding conditions.