Derby Day Lineup Spotlight: Barca Set for Fiery Clash Against Espanyol

Derby Day Lineup Spotlight

De Jong and Lewandowski are closer to the bench, as Barcelona prepare for the derby against Espanyol in La Liga round 18.

Juan Garcia, Barcelona's goalkeeper, will face one of the toughest tests of his career when he meets Espanyol, his former club, this Saturday in La Liga.

Barcelona secured Garcia's services from their neighbor by triggering his release clause, a homecoming that will mean a lot to the keeper.

According to AS, Hans Flick has confirmed Garcia as the starter for the derby, fully aware of the special significance of returning to his old home.

He should not expect a warm reception, as his departure last summer remains a wound for Espanyol fans.

Flick argues that Eric Garcia provides the balance needed in midfield defense, giving him priority over Frenkie de Jong, who will be on the bench for this match.

With this setup, the central defense will line up with Pau Kobarci and Gerard Martin, supported by wing-backs Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde.

Pedri will start in midfield after recovering from a leg issue, while Dani Olmo is on the bench after a recent left shoulder dislocation kept him out for a month.

In attack, Ferran Torres is the coach's preferred center forward, Lewandowski earning a spot on the bench, with Lamine Yamal on the right after recovering from an illness, and Rafinha on the left.

Punchline 1: Barca's attack is so sharp that even the net needs a safety helmet.

Punchline 2: If this derby were a sniper test, the ball would hit the target every time—and Espanyol might file a complaint to the referee for unfair targeting.