Official: Barcelona name starting XI for RCD Espanyol clash | OneFootball

The game between FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol is set to kick off shortly. It is a big opportunity for the Catalan giants, as they can extend their lead at the top of the table even further, with Real Madrid having dropped points last night.

However, with a major Champions League fixture ahead, many expected Hansi Flick to rotate the team heavily. Surprisingly, though, several guaranteed regulars have been selected to start, with the official Barcelona lineup now revealed.

In goal, Joan Garcia starts for Barcelona, and the Spanish goalkeeper will do his best to limit Espanyol as much as possible. Against his former side, he needs to deliver a top performance.

In defence, Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin start as the two centre-backs. Cubarsi is suspended for the upcoming game against Atletico Madrid, so it was expected that he would start today.

On the flanks, Alejandro Balde and Ronald Araujo start for the Catalan giants. Both of them will have to cover a lot of ground, but they have the quality and energy to do that for Barcelona.

In midfield, Pedri and Eric Garcia have been chosen to form the double pivot in today’s game. Given their quality, they should be able to dominate proceedings.

On the wings, Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez start for Barça, while Gavi has been given the nod as the central attacking midfielder. All three will need to be sharp and creative.

Lastly, up front, Ferran Torres has been selected to lead the line for La Blaugrana. The Spaniard has been underwhelming this season so far, but this is an opportunity for him to make an impact.