Barcelona Prepares for Catalan Derby Against Espanyol

FC Barcelona is poised to continue its strong La Liga campaign with a derby match against struggling local rivals RCD Espanyol. After an impressive victory over Real Madrid and a solid showing against Bayern Munich, Barcelona aims to secure three points to extend their lead at the top of the table, currently sitting six points ahead of Madrid. Coach Hansi Flick emphasized the importance of focusing on this derby, despite the team's successful streak, and may consider minor rotations in the lineup. Key players like Frenkie de Jong are expected to return, while defensive stalwarts Pau Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez will be crucial for maintaining defensive solidity. Espanyol, facing relegation concerns, hopes to build on a recent Copa del Rey victory, but their league form has been troubling. The match presents an opportunity for Barcelona to assert their dominance in front of home fans at Montjuic Stadium.