FC Barcelona has officially confirmed the squad list ahead of a volatile La Liga encounter with Espanyol at RCDE Stadium.
The La Liga leaders, unbeaten in 13 matches, welcome back crucial personnel to deepen their squad rotation during a congested schedule—vital for sustaining their nine-point lead and Champions League push.
Medical clearances confirm full fitness, supercharging an attack already led by Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski.
Those main stars are Dani Olmo and Pedri, both conquering recent knocks to earn spots in Flick’s squad. Olmo, Barcelona’s €62m summer coup, returns from an ankle issue that sidelined him for three games—his five goals and four assists highlight versatility as a left-eight wizard, as per the official Barcelona squad.
Pedri, the midfield maestro, shakes off a hamstring tweak; his 92% pass accuracy and press resistance anchor transitions, forming a dream pivot with Frenkie de Jong.
Flick’s likely lineup features Joan Garcia in goal, with Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martin, and Alejandro Balde across the backline—Ronald Araújo and Andreas Christensen remain out long-term.
Midfield trio De Jong, Pedri, and Fermín López unleashes Raphinha, Olmo, and Yamal behind Lewandowski.
Bench firepower includes Ter Stegen, Marc Casadó, Ferran Torres, and academy prospects.
Espanyol, battling relegation, line up Marko Dmitrović behind Omar El Hilali, Fernando Calero, Leandro Cabrera, and Carlos Romero; Pol Lozano and Urko González de la Fuente protect Javi Puado, Edu Expósito, Pere Milla, and Roberto Fernández.
The absences of Brian Oliván and Charles Pickel further weaken the hosts.
This derby carries huge stakes—Barcelona aim to extend their winning streak to nine while avenging last season’s draw. Olmo’s flair dismantles low blocks; Pedri’s vision slices defenses.
Flick urges “maximum intensity” amid title race pressure and January transfer buzz. Espanyol dream of a shock, but Barça’s reloaded midfield spells dominance.
Victory locks in momentum, silencing critics and fueling Flick’s invincible campaign.
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