"Starting with the hosts, while Girona might have opened 2026 at the heart of a La Liga relegation scrap, Michel's resurgent squad have certainly made some stern improvements so far this calendar year. Despite suffering last-gasp heartbreak away at Sevilla last week as they eventually had to settle for a 1-1 stalemate, the Blanquivermells have suffered just a single defeat from any of their first six top-flight appearances so far this calendar year."
"Only making two appearances for Girona after completing a January switch from Barcelona, veteran goalkeeper Marc-Andre her Stegen is expected to miss the remainder of the season after undergoing hamstring surgery last week. Likewise, former Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek remains on the sidelines with a long-term Achilles tendon injury. Completing a season-long loan switch from Manchester City last summer, Brazilian starlet Vitor Reis will start at the heart of Girona's defence."
Girona began 2026 close to a La Liga relegation scrap but have improved under Michel, suffering just one defeat in their first six top-flight matches of the year. The side drew 1-1 at Sevilla last week and opened the New Year with three consecutive La Liga wins, lifting them away from the drop zone. Girona lost 2-1 at Barcelona on October 18 and have lost their previous three meetings with the Spanish champions by an aggregate 10-3. Girona face key absences: veteran goalkeeper Marc-Andre is expected to miss the season after hamstring surgery and Donny van de Beek remains sidelined with an Achilles injury. Vitor Reis, on loan from Manchester City, will start in central defence while Bryan Gil retains his attacking spot. Barcelona suffered a 4-0 Copa del Rey defeat at Atletico Madrid earlier in the week.
Read at Soccer News
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