Espanyol take extra measures to avoid chaos that could harm Barcelona summer signing | OneFootball

Barcelona may have Villarreal next on the fixture list, but the focus is already shifting towards a far more emotional and sensitive occasion. 

The first match of the new year brings the Catalan derby, and all attention will inevitably fall on one figure in particular – Joan Garcia.

The goalkeeper’s move from Espanyol to Barcelona last summer caused a huge reaction among Espanyol supporters. 

It was a transfer that cut deep, and Garcia’s return to familiar territory is expected to be anything but quiet. 

Adding to the tension is the venue itself, with the derby set to be played at the RCDE Stadium, a place where emotions will naturally run high.

Espanyol are already preparing

According to Catalunya Radio (h/t SPORT), Espanyol have been working behind the scenes for some time to prepare for Garcia’s return. 

The club is fully aware of the possible reaction from the stands and is keen to ensure the situation does not spiral out of control. 

Espanyol want to protect Joan Garcia. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Their priority is to “avoid unpleasant situations” and, above all, prevent incidents that could lead to serious sanctions or even the closure of the stadium.

One of the main concerns revolves around the possibility of objects being thrown from the stands. This is a scenario Espanyol are determined to prevent at all costs. 

As a result, security measures for the derby will be significantly stronger than usual. 

The club plans to reinforce areas of the stadium considered most likely to see incidents. Both goals will be under close watch, including the one Garcia is expected to defend. 

The aim is to stop any action from the stands before it even begins. To achieve this, the security operation will involve an increased presence of police officers, additional private security staff, and a near hand-to-hand deployment. 

Human barriers are expected to be formed behind the goal in the Canito stand to reduce any risk.