"FC Barcelona are all set to play their first game of 2026 in a little over an hour as they take on neighbours RCD Espanyol in a highly anticipated Catalan derby. With both teams heading into the game on the back of a good run of form, an enticing match-up is expected at the RCDE Stadium. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has now announced the starting lineup that will be taking the field against Manolo Gonzalez's Espanyol outfit."
"Joan Garcia, starting in goal as usual, will be the man in the spotlight as he returns to his former home for the first time since joining Barcelona in the summer. In a surprising move, Pedri has been left on the bench despite recovering full fitness and training over the past week. Frenkie de Jong and Eric Garcia once again feature as the starting midfielders."
FC Barcelona travel to the RCDE Stadium to face neighbours RCD Espanyol in a Catalan derby as 2026 gets underway. Both teams arrive in good form, setting up an enticing match. Joan Garcia returns to his former home and starts in goal for Barcelona. Pedri is on the bench despite recent recovery and training. Frenkie de Jong and Eric Garcia occupy the midfield. Ferran Torres starts ahead of Robert Lewandowski as the No. 9, with Marcus Rashford, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha completing the attacking unit. Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, and Alejandro Balde form the backline.
Read at Barca Universal
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