Both teams head into the Catalan derby with everything to play for: Espanyol aims to secure its LaLiga survival with a win, while Barcelona can clinch the league title—and complete a domestic treble—by taking all three points in Cornellà. Manager Hansi Flick has named a near-full-strength XI despite key absences, and he insists on a serious, no-nonsense approach.
Both teams have a lot on the line: Espanyol will be mathematically safe if they win the derby, while Barcelona will be crowned league champions if they claim the three points
The Catalan derby takes place at the RCDE Stadium this Thursday at 21:30 CET
Espanyol, coming off three consecutive defeats, will look to secure their LaLiga status in front of a buoyant home crowd
Barcelona, fresh from their thrilling 4–3 win over Real Madrid, can complete a domestic treble (Supercopa, Copa del Rey and Liga) with a victory .
Espanyol coach Manolo González will rally his side and prepare a cauldron-like atmosphere to celebrate a historic victory over their city rivals.
Manager Hansi Flick has named his strongest available lineup and insists on a serious, no-nonsense approach to the fixture
With players such as Ferran Torres, Jules Koundé and Íñigo Martínez unavailable due to injury or suspension, Barcelona will field a slightly altered backline.
Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
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Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczęsny
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Defense: Eric García, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martí
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Midfield: Frenkie de Jong, Pedri
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Attack: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski
On the bench, options include young talents Marc Casadó, Gavi and Pau Víctor
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